Speaking ahead of Sunday's final, Thiaw said: "The country is not in agreement [with his decision], and I am not in agreement. We want to keep him as long as possible. He represents Africa, the world, and when we say it's his decision, it doesn't just belong to him, he belongs to the people of Senegal, and they want to see him carry on.
"Considering his example, we need such people like this in the country. He gives lessons, his humility, his education, how he gives his sweat for Senegal. He gave his life for this team to get to the World Cup in 2022, he gave his life to win the first AFCON and get the first star.
"If I had to sign a paper to allow this player to leave, I would say 'no', and his teammates would say 'no' as well."
Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye echoed Thiaw's sentiments, adding: "We're going to try to keep him with us a bit longer, because he still has some great years to give. I heard what he said and we'll see what he decides to do. But we really want him to stay with us for many more years."
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