Patrick Vieira is set to become Senegal’s new head coach during a turbulent period for the national side, although ongoing complications mean the former France captain may never formally take control of the Teranga Lions.
The 50-year-old has been named as the team’s next manager even though no agreement has yet been signed, while no date has been confirmed for his official unveiling.
Senegal’s football federation (FSF), which is dealing with several internal disputes, confirmed that negotiations over Vieira’s contractual and administrative terms remain in progress.
The former Arsenal and Inter Milan midfielder received unanimous approval to replace Pape Thiaw during an FSF meeting on Monday. Former Netherlands player Patrick Kluivert was also among the candidates under consideration.
Questions nevertheless remain over whether Thiaw’s contract has been properly terminated.
Thiaw was dismissed after Senegal suffered a dramatic defeat by Belgium in the World Cup round of 32, but the government, which finances the national team, did not formally approve his removal.
He is seeking several months of unpaid salary and a range of bonuses, with the overall claim reportedly close to $815,000 (£600,000).
At the same time, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (Cas) is expected to rule by Friday on the disputed election of the current FSF leadership, which has faced a challenge for roughly a year.
Despite becoming increasingly isolated and lacking support from both the government and much of the public, the FSF leadership felt compelled to appoint a new coach quickly while awaiting the Cas decision.
Senegal’s schedule leaves little room for delay. The team will return to competition on 23 September, visiting Mozambique in its opening Group J qualifier for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), before facing Ethiopia a few days later.
The verdict in Lausanne could undermine the authority of the FSF hierarchy and may also cast doubt on Vieira’s appointment as head coach.
Although Vieira enjoyed an outstanding playing career and is regarded as one of the finest footballers of his generation, his achievements as a manager have been considerably more modest.
What do you feel about this post?
Like
Love
Happy
Haha
Sad
