Aliou Cissé is the highest paid coach in Africa!

Africa 02 March 2025 at 20:22

Hazem Mlhem

News Editor

After making his mark on the history of Senegalese soccer, former Lions coach Aliou Cissé is about to take on a new challenge by taking charge of the Libyan national team. The Libyan Football Federation (LFF) is counting on his experience to revitalize a team in search of renewal.

A major challenge

Currently 118th in the FIFA rankings, Libya are struggling to establish themselves on the continental stage. Absent from the African Cup of Nations since 2012 and never having qualified for a World Cup, the North African national team is aiming for a return to the limelight.

To this end, they have secured the services of a seasoned coach: winner of the CAN 2022 and two-time world champion with Senegal, Aliou Cissé boasts an impressive CV.

A contract to match its ambitions

The agreement between Cissé and the LFF has been finalized. The Senegalese coach is expected in Benghazi this Wednesday, March 5, to sign a two-year contract, renewable in the event of qualification for the CAN 2027.

To attract him, the Libyan authorities have pulled out all the stops: a monthly salary of 76,000 euros, well above the 46,000 euros he was earning with Senegal's “Tanière”.

This makes the 48-year-old the second-highest-paid coach in Africa. He is second only to Vladimir Petkovic, the new boss of Algeria's Fennecs, who earns a staggering 135,000 euros a month.

In addition to managing the first team, Aliou Cissé will be responsible for mentoring the country's young talent. Libya hopes that his experience will help build a competitive team over the long term.

It remains to be seen whether the native of Ziguinchor will be able to reproduce the same alchemy as with Senegal and restore hope to the Knights of the Mediterranean.