Patrick Vieira, the former Arsenal midfielder and France international, has been named the new head coach of Senegal's national team, the Teranga Lions. The appointment was unanimously approved by the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) on Monday, according to an official statement.
Replacing Pape Thiaw After World Cup Exit
Vieira steps into the role left vacant by Pape Thiaw, who departed following Senegal's early elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The FSF said the decision to bring in Vieira is part of broader efforts to strengthen the technical management of the national team and support Senegal's sporting ambitions on the international stage.
The federation confirmed that discussions are currently ongoing between the relevant parties regarding the administrative and contractual details of Vieira's appointment. The FSF also stated that the date for the official presentation of the new head coach, along with details about the next stages of his tenure, will be announced in due course.
Vieira's Playing and Coaching Career
Vieira, now 50 years old, was a key member of the France squad that won the 1998 FIFA World Cup on home soil. Since transitioning into management, he has coached several clubs in England and France, including Crystal Palace, Strasbourg, and Nice.
His appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Senegalese senior national team, as the federation looks to build on its recent performances and achieve greater success in future competitions.
