Senegal parts ways with national coach Thiaw – Vieira tipped as possible successor

Patrick Vieira: A name with symbolic impact

Vieira, who spent his playing career at top international clubs, was most recently active as a coach in the English Premier League. His experience in a top league as well as his connections in Senegalese football make him particularly interesting for the position. Should he accept the offer, it would be his first assignment as a national team coach.

The association apparently wants to rely on a coach with international experience. Senegal has been one of the most consistent teams in African football for years, and winning the Africa Cup of Nations had further increased the pressure of expectations. With a prominent successor, the team is to be reshaped for the upcoming major tournaments.

Outlook on the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers

It remains unclear when the association will officially announce the successor. Other candidates are also likely to make the shortlist, but the name Vieira is already causing a stir. Should Vieira agree, the association would have a prominent solution for the sporting realignment.

For Thiaw, this brings an end to a chapter that had begun quite successfully on a sporting level. The triumph at the Africa Cup of Nations, although subsequently tarnished by the ruling, had initially made the coach a hero in his home country. However, the ongoing ban and the World Cup exit weighed on the balance sheet and ultimately led to the separation.

From the association's circle, it was said that they wanted to look ahead. The Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in September would simultaneously offer an initial test for the new man on the touchline.

The future coach's club and league are expected to be announced in the coming days. Until then, the association's sporting management is likely to hold talks with several candidates in order to find the best possible solution for Senegal.