Patrick Vieira Appointed Senegal Head Coach After World Cup Exit

Senegal have appointed former France international Patrick Vieira as their new head coach following the team’s disappointing campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Senegalese Football Federation announced Vieira’s appointment on Tuesday, saying the decision was part of a strategic plan to strengthen the national team’s technical structure and meet the country’s sporting ambitions.

Vieira, who was born in Senegal but grew up in France, replaces Pape Thiaw, who was dismissed shortly after Senegal were eliminated by Belgium in the last 32 of the World Cup.

Thiaw, who took charge of the national team in 2024, reportedly faced growing tension within the squad during the tournament.

The Senegalese federation’s president had previously said the atmosphere around the team had become toxic following disagreements over Thiaw’s salary demands.

Vieira’s appointment was formally approved on Monday, with the federation stating that his official unveiling and onboarding would take place at a later date.

The 50-year-old enjoyed an illustrious playing career, particularly with Arsenal, where he was a key member of the team that won three English league titles between 1998 and 2004.

He later played for Juventus and Inter Milan before ending his career with Manchester City.

He began his managerial career with New York City FC in 2016 before taking charge of French club Nice. Vieira later managed Crystal Palace in the Premier League but was dismissed in March 2023 after a 12-match winless run.

He subsequently had managerial spells at Strasbourg and Italian club Genoa.

At international level, Vieira earned 107 caps for France and was part of the French team that won the 1998 FIFA World Cup and Euro 2000.

His immediate task will be to rebuild Senegal’s national team, restore confidence within the squad and prepare the Teranga Lions for their upcoming international assignments.

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