Senegal to be Led by World Champion Vieira, Born in Dakar

Senegal has appointed former French football star Patrick Vieira as the new head coach of its national team, the African vice-champions. The 50-year-old Vieira takes over from Pape Thiaw, who was dismissed following the team's performance at the recent World Cup.

Vieira, born in Dakar, brings a wealth of experience to the role. He was a prominent player in the 1990s and early 2000s, leaving a significant mark at clubs like Arsenal, Cannes, Milan, Juventus, Inter Milan, and Manchester City. He also represented France, earning 107 caps and scoring six goals, and was part of the victorious squads for the 1998 World Cup and the 2002 European Championship.

Since transitioning to coaching in 2016, Vieira has managed teams including New York in the US, Nice and Strasbourg in France, Genoa in Italy, and Crystal Palace in England. The Senegalese Football Federation stated that Vieira's appointment is a "strategic decision" intended to align with the high sporting ambitions of the national team.

Senegal's journey in the last World Cup saw them defeat Iraq 5-0 in the group stage, followed by losses to France (1-3) and Norway (2-3). They were eliminated in the knockout stage after a close match against Belgium, losing 2-3 in extra time.

“

The appointment of Vieira is a strategic decision in line with the high sporting ambitions of the national team.