New Leadership
Patrick Vieira, 50, former French player, was announced as the new coach of Senegal's national team on Tuesday (18). He takes over after Pape Thiaw was dismissed on July 12 following Senegal’s exit in the round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup.
Vieira’s Background
World champion with France in 1998, Vieira played for clubs such as Milan, Arsenal, Juventus, Inter Milan, and Manchester City before hanging up his boots in 2011. He began his coaching career in 2015 with New York City FC and has managed Nice, Crystal Palace, Strasbourg, and Genoa. Free on the market since last November, he is tasked with restoring confidence among the 'Leões de Teranga'.
Recent Senegal Context
Senegal had won the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, defeating Morocco 1‑0 in extra time, but the title was later awarded to Morocco by the CAF. The FSF took the case to the CAS, which has yet to issue a decision. Thiaw’s dismissal was due to the result being deemed a "failure" at the tournament held in North America.
