Senegal: progress being made for Patrick Vieira
After Senegal's elimination in the round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup, the federation has decided it's time for a fresh start.
The end of the collaboration between Pape Thiaw and his management has been in motion for several days, though his departure still needs to be officially finalized in agreement with the Ministry of Sports. For now, the Senegalese Football Federation has formally announced the initiation of a termination process, while the ministry wants to carry out its own review of Senegal’s World Cup campaign.
Since then, the search for Pape Thiaw's successor has moved forward rapidly. According to Foot Mercato, Patrick Vieira is on the verge of becoming Senegal’s next head coach. Born in Dakar and currently a free agent after leaving Genoa, the 1998 World Cup winner has been made a top priority by Senegalese officials to usher in a new era for the Lions.
Talks have taken place in recent days, and the negotiations are progressing positively. After managing New York City, OGC Nice, Crystal Palace, Strasbourg, and Genoa, Vieira could now embark on his first adventure as a national team coach. Before his appointment can be made official, the federation will first have to fully resolve Pape Thiaw’s contractual situation and secure the green light from the ministry.