Reinildo Mandava sends nine-word message to Sunderland fans after international retirement | OneFootball

Sunderland defender Reinildo Mandava has issued a concise message to supporters after confirming his retirement from international football.

On Thursday night he shared a training-ground image on Wearside. The player said in a post, "The smile of someone who is BACK HOME. Focus." The nine-word line was widely interpreted as his attention switching to club duties.

The message arrives days before Sunderland return to Premier League action at home to Crystal Palace on Saturday, which is set to mark his first domestic outing since the Africa Cup of Nations.

Earlier in the week he confirmed he would no longer represent Mozambique, saying the call followed careful reflection after a serious injury and the growing strain of balancing club and country. He admitted long travel, tight schedules and recovery had become harder to manage.

He added that his final cap came at the Africa Cup of Nations in December 2025 in Morocco, allowing a farewell in the shirt. He thanked his family, expressed pride in representing Mozambique and spoke about how injury had reshaped his view of football and life.

Back in England and focused on Sunderland, Reinildo has previously described the Premier League as a childhood dream. He is expected to be available for selection, and his experience and composure could aid Régis Le Bris' side as the Black Cats seek momentum in the second half of the season.

Source: Sunderland Echo