Senegal is in talks with this Frenchman to replace Pape Thiaw

Patrick Vieira is on the verge of returning to the dugout. According to L'Équipe and Foot Mercato, the former Genoa manager is the leading candidate to take charge of the Senegalese national team.

Pape Thiaw set to depart

The Senegalese Football Federation has initiated proceedings to end its collaboration with Pape Thiaw and his staff. This decision still needs to be approved by the Ministry of Sports. The federation is looking to start a new chapter following Senegal's disappointing results at the 2026 World Cup.

Among the coaches considered, Hervé Renard was also on the shortlist. But Patrick Vieira now appears to be the front-runner. Talks between both parties are reportedly at an advanced stage, and an agreement could be reached in the coming days. Born in Dakar, the 50-year-old coach knows top-level football inside out. After a stellar playing career, he has managed New York City FC, Nice, Crystal Palace, Strasbourg, and Genoa.

Our analysis

Patrick Vieira has never managed a national team before, but his profile is highly appealing to Senegalese officials. His experience, international track record, and Senegalese roots could make him the perfect man to reignite the Lions of Teranga after their disappointment at the 2026 World Cup.

Aliou Toundé |

Editorfr

Related teams and leagues

Senegal