Patrick Vieira Appointed Senegal Head Coach After World Cup Disappointment

Posted : 19 August 2026

Senegal have appointed former France international Patrick Vieira as their new head coach. The Senegalese Football Federation confirmed the appointment after the national team parted ways with Pape Thiaw following their World Cup disappointment.

Vieira's appointment was ratified on Monday, with the federation describing the decision as a strategic move. The 50-year-old will be tasked with rebuilding the team and establishing a stronger technical structure.

The new coach was born in Dakar before moving to France as a child. His background gives him a direct connection to Senegal, while his playing and coaching career has given him extensive experience at the highest levels of European football.

Senegal's decision follows a disappointing World Cup campaign. The Teranga Lions were eliminated by Belgium in the last 32, bringing their tournament to an early end and increasing pressure on the team's leadership.

Thiaw was dismissed less than two weeks after the tournament. He had been appointed Senegal coach in 2024 and guided the team before the federation decided to make a change following the World Cup exit.

Vieira arrives with an impressive playing career behind him. He won the 1998 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2000 with France and earned 107 international appearances. He also played for Arsenal, Juventus, Inter Milan and Manchester City during a decorated club career.

At Arsenal, Vieira became one of the leading figures of the successful team managed by Arsene Wenger. He won three Premier League titles with the Gunners between 1998 and 2004 and was part of the club's famous unbeaten league campaign in 2003/04.

Vieira moved into management after retiring as a player. He began his senior coaching career with New York City FC in 2016 before taking charge of French club Nice in 2018.

He later returned to the Premier League as Crystal Palace manager in 2021. His spell ended in March 2023 after a 12-match winless run, before he later had shorter managerial periods with Strasbourg and Italian club Genoa.

The Senegal job gives Vieira another opportunity to manage at international level. His first major task will be to restore confidence and build a team capable of competing strongly in future African and global competitions.

The federation said Vieira's official presentation and onboarding will take place at a later date. His arrival has already generated significant interest because of his Senegalese roots and his extensive experience in European football.

Patrick Vieira Appointed Senegal Head Coach After World Cup Disappointment

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