Overview
- The FSF announced on Tuesday that Patrick Vieira is the new head coach and that a date for his formal presentation will be set later.
- Vieira succeeds Pape Thiaw, who was dismissed after Senegal’s round-of-32 exit at the 2026 World Cup.
- Vieira brings a celebrated playing career—more than 100 caps for France and World Cup and Euro wins—but a mixed club coaching record that includes stints at New York City FC, Nice, Crystal Palace, Strasbourg and Genoa.
- Senegalese media and Goal.com report there were heated debates inside the FSF over how the appointment was handled and unconfirmed reports say Vieira may sign a four-year deal linked to the federation’s ‘Vision 2030’ plan.
- Vieira’s immediate tasks include preparing the squad for AFCON 2027 qualifiers that begin as early as September and overseeing the federation’s ongoing appeal of CAF’s stripped 2025 AFCON title at a CAS hearing set for October 8.