Senegal considers Patrick Vieira to replace Pape Thiaw after World Cup exit

An emergency executive committee meeting of the Senegalese Football Federation will take place this Saturday in Dakar. The session will include a full debriefing of the Lions of Teranga's participation in the World Cup in the United States, which ended with a round of 16 exit against Belgium (2-3, after extra time) — far short of the team's initial ambitions.

Organizational Failures Under Scrutiny

According to reports, significant organizational shortcomings are expected to lead to intense internal discussions. Questions are being raised about how so many errors could have contributed to the team's failure, particularly following what was considered the Lions' best match of the tournament, reigniting frustrations.

Beyond preparation flaws, a handling error by Mory Diaw is being cited as the critical moment that cost Senegal a place in the round of 16.

Pape Thiaw's Future in Question

Coach Pape Thiaw's fate will be a central topic of debate. Thiaw claims to have extended his contract during the competition, though other internal sources are less categorical about this version of events. This discrepancy could spark a heated debate about the future of a coach who is described as "hanging by a thread."

Patrick Vieira Emerges as Potential Successor

Internally, some key figures would like to see Patrick Vieira take over the national team. Vieira is currently free from any contract since leaving Genoa in November 2025. Born in Dakar, Senegal, and having invested in the creation of Diambars — one of the country's largest training centers — Vieira presents an ideal profile in the eyes of key decision-makers.

In a country grappling with a serious political crisis, the name of the future coach remains a major topic as the federation seeks to revive the national team. Vieira is understood to have strong arguments in his favor.