Pape Thiaw leaves Senegal national team. Main contender for vacant position named

The Senegal national team finds itself without a head coach following the conclusion of their 2026 World Cup campaign. The national football federation has officially announced the dismissal of Pape Thiaw, who had been at the helm since December 2024. Alongside the 44-year-old manager, his entire coaching staff has also departed.

This decision was made during an executive committee meeting of the Senegalese Football Federation held in Dakar.

The shake-up comes in the wake of the team’s disappointing performance at the 2026 World Cup. In the round of 16, the “Lions of Teranga” were edged out by Belgium, losing 2-3 after extra time and ending their pursuit of the trophy.

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The Senegalese football authorities have now launched their search for a new national team boss. According to L'Équipe, one of the leading candidates for the vacant role is former Strasbourg head coach and ex-France international midfielder Patrick Vieira.