Patrick Vieira appointed Senegal head coach after World Cup exit

Senegal has appointed Patrick Vieira as head coach of the men’s national football team, turning to the former France and Arsenal midfielder after the Lions of Teranga’s exit from the 2026 World Cup.

The Senegalese Football Federation said Vieira’s appointment was ratified on Monday, August 17. He succeeds Pape Thiaw, who was dismissed after Senegal lost to Belgium in the round of 16. A date for Vieira’s formal presentation has not yet been announced.

Vieira, 50, was born in Senegal and moved to France as a child. He earned 107 caps for France and was part of the teams that won the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000. His club career included major spells with Arsenal and Inter Milan.

As a coach, Vieira has managed New York City FC, Nice, Crystal Palace, Strasbourg and Genoa. Senegal’s federation described the appointment as a strategic step intended to build a high-level technical staff and advance the country’s sporting ambitions.

His immediate task will be to restore momentum after a turbulent World Cup campaign and prepare the team for its next competitive fixtures.