Senegal are reportedly targeting Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira as their next manager after sacking Pape Thiaw following a disappointing World Cup campaign. The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) announced Thiaw's dismissal on Sunday, citing a need for reorganization after the team's early exit.
World Cup Disappointment
Senegal, ranked 15th in the world, entered the tournament with high expectations after winning the Africa Cup of Nations in January, though the title was later stripped. However, they suffered defeats to France and Norway before a heavy win over Iraq allowed them to scrape into the knockout rounds. In the last-32, Senegal led Belgium 2-0 with four minutes remaining but collapsed, losing in extra-time to a 125th-minute Youri Tielemans penalty.
The exit prompted captain Sadio Mane to retire from international duty, while midfielder Pape Gueye stated he would not play for Senegal again unless there was a change in management. Gueye's wish has now been granted.
FSF Statement
An FSF statement read: 'After a thorough evaluation of the sporting results and prospects of the national team, the Executive Committee deemed it necessary to initiate this procedure in the best interests of Senegalese football. Also, the Executive Committee mandated the President to take all necessary measures for a genuine reorganisation of all national teams. Furthermore, the President of the Senegalese Football Federation will hold a press conference on Monday, July 13. This meeting with the media will be an opportunity to present the reasons for this decision, to take stock of the situation of the national team and to discuss the prospects for the future.'
Vieira Tipped for Role
According to French outlet L'Equipe, Senegal are looking to hire a big-name coach, with Patrick Vieira emerging as the top target. Vieira, 50, was born in Senegal's capital Dakar but moved to France at age eight. He earned over 100 caps for France, winning the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000, and enjoyed a stellar club career with Arsenal, claiming three Premier League titles and four FA Cups.
Vieira's managerial career has been less decorated but includes a praised spell at Crystal Palace, where he was touted as a potential successor to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. He has been out of work since leaving Italian side Genoa in November and has served as a pundit for ITV during the World Cup.
Senegal's squad includes Chelsea duo Nicolas Jackson and Mamadou Sarr, making the role an attractive prospect for top coaches.
