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Senegal have named French coach Patrick Vieira as their new national team head coach, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) announced on Tuesday, 18 August 2026. Vieira replaces Pape Thiaw, who was dismissed along with his technical staff after Senegal’s last-16 exit at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Four-year deal with clear targets
Multiple reports indicate Vieira has agreed a four-year contract running to 2030, covering the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations cycle and the 2030 World Cup qualifiers. The FSF has set two main objectives: reach the AFCON 2027 final and secure qualification for the 2030 World Cup.
Salary and status
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Senegalese media say Vieira’s monthly salary is in the range of 35–45 million CFA francs (roughly €53,000–€68,000), putting him among the continent’s better-paid national team coaches. While the FSF’s initial statement confirmed the appointment, it said administrative and contractual formalities were still being finalised before his official presentation.
New era after World Cup disappointment
The appointment marks a fresh start for the Lions of Teranga after winning AFCON 2025 but then suffering a disappointing last-16 defeat to Belgium at the 2026 World Cup. Vieira, a 1998 World Cup winner with France and former coach at clubs including Crystal Palace, Nice and Genoa, has been out of management since leaving Genoa in November 2025.
