Formose Mendy: Senegal are going to Morocco to win the AFCON

After a year away from the national team, Formose Mendy remains determined to reclaim his place among Senegal’s Lions of Teranga ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

The Watford defender, currently on loan from Lorient, has made just two appearances for the Championship side but is already focused on proving himself worthy of a national team return.

Speaking, the 24-year-old—who has 10 caps and one international goal—opened up about his absence from the squad, his form in England, and Senegal’s ambition to conquer Africa once again.

Mendy admitted that competition among his African club teammates often fuels light-hearted rivalry.

“Yes, yes! During the match between DR Congo and Senegal, for example, we talked a lot among ourselves, we teased each other, we laughed a lot!” the said, referring to his interactions with Watford teammates including Edo Kayembe, Nampalys Mendy, and Morocco’s Imran Louza.

The defender has not featured for Senegal since late 2024, but insists there is no mystery behind his absence.

“Nothing special is happening; it’s just that to get selected for the national team, you have to play matches and perform well on the pitch, Mendy explained. I wish the players who were recently called up all the best. I congratulate them on qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. Now it’s up to me to do my job on the field to get back there.”

Despite missing recent call-ups, Mendy’s passion for representing his country remains undiminished.

“I am a son of the soil. I am Senegalese. Every Senegalese dreams of going to the AFCON,” he said. “Whatever happens, I remain Senegalese and a supporter above all!”

Asked about his preferred position, Mendy was clear about his role on the pitch.

“My primary role is center-back. But some coaches like to use me at right-back because I’m fast. That’s football—you adapt. I’m available on the pitch whether they need me in the center or on the right. But in any case, I’m a center-back.”

When it comes to Senegal’s ambitions in Morocco, Mendy left no doubt about the team’s intentions.

“Of course! We’re going there to win this AFCON. We’re not going there for a stroll or a holiday. We’re going there to win this cup. If everyone tells you you’re the favorite, you’re the favorite! You have to take the trophy and bring it home!” he declared confidently.

Reflecting on his experiences at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and the 2024 AFCON in Ivory Coast, Mendy said those tournaments left a lasting impression.

“I have so many memories and I hope to have the chance to play in these kinds of competitions again. You have to be good on the pitch to go there. It’s God who gives. My main prayer is that all the Senegalese players stay healthy, so we can go to the AFCON, play, and win the trophy. The most important thing is that there are no injuries.”

He also spoke fondly of senior teammates Kalidou Koulibaly and Moussa Niakhaté, who have been key influences on his development.

“As a defender, I pay closer attention to those who play in my position. I learn a lot from Kalidou Koulibaly and Moussa Niakhaté in particular. They’re like older brothers to me. I learn from them. They give me a lot of advice, and I take it all in.”

Before ending, Mendy praised his former Lorient teammate Arthur Avom, now shining for Cameroon.

“He’s my younger brother, we’re always together, we even texted again this Sunday. I’m not surprised by his progress, because he’s a hard worker. He gives it his all, he’s 100% focused on the pitch. I wish him all the best. I hope he keeps it up and has a great season.”