The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has begun its search for a new head coach following the dismissal of Pape Thiaw, with former Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira emerging as the leading candidate to take over the Lions of Teranga.
Thiaw was sacked after Senegal's disappointing round-of-32 exit at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite taking a 2-0 lead against Belgium, Senegal dramatically lost 3-2 in extra time.
The Teranga Lions had also lost to France and Norway in the group stage before thrashing Iraq 5-0 to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams.
The FSF confirmed the decision after "a thorough evaluation of the sporting results and prospects of the national team".
Vieira, born in Dakar, chose to represent France internationally, winning the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000. Since moving into coaching, he has managed New York City FC, Nice, Crystal Palace, Strasbourg, and Genoa.
The French newspaper L'Equipe reports that Vieira has strong support within the federation. His ties to Senegal run deep - he co-founded the Diambars academy, which has produced several Senegalese internationals, including Idrissa Gana Gueye.
The incoming coach will inherit a squad seeking stability after a difficult period. Reports suggest several senior players had grown frustrated with Thiaw's coaching staff, with midfielder Pape Gueye publicly questioning decisions and announcing he would take a break from the national team while the management remained. Restoring unity will be the immediate priority.
Other names linked to the vacancy include Habib Beye, Omar Daf, and Herve Renard. However, Vieira appears to be the federation's preferred choice. If appointed, he would become the first French coach to lead Senegal since Alain Giresse.
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