Patrick Vieira has been appointed the new head coach of the Senegal men’s national football team, replacing Pape Thiaw, who was dismissed after Senegal’s early exit in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Born in Dakar, Senegal, Vieira moved to France at eight and played over 100 matches for the French national team, winning the World Cup in 1998 and the European Championship in 2000.
Senegal’s football federation (FSF) hopes Vieira’s experience will enhance its coaching staff and support national sports goals. His first matches in charge are expected next month during the qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Vieira recently left his position at Genoa, where he had guided the team to safety in Serie A. As a player, he won three Premier League titles and four FA Cups with Arsenal and achieved success with AC Milan, Inter Milan, and Manchester City. After retiring in 2011, he managed New York City, Nice, and Crystal Palace.
Thiaw faced controversy in January when Senegal left the field during the 2025 AFCON final after Morocco was awarded a late penalty. After returning, Senegal lost, and Morocco was declared the winner in March after the Confederation of African Football overturned the final’s decision. Senegal has appealed this ruling, with a hearing on October 8.
