Successor to Aliou Cissé: Augustin Senghor Sheds Light on the Process

In an exclusive interview with Afrik-Foot, the president of the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF), Augustin Senghor, clarified the situation regarding the succession of Aliou Cissé. With many eager to know about the next head coach of the Lions, Senghor emphasized that the recruiting process hasn’t started yet. Pape Thiaw will temporarily lead the team for the upcoming November fixtures, possibly disappointing those in a rush for a decision.

Following the state’s non-approval of Cissé’s contract, the FSF moved swiftly to ensure team continuity by appointing Pape Thiaw as interim coach. « Faced with an exceptional situation, our immediate goal is qualification for CAN 2025, » explained Senghor. Thiaw, familiar with the team and experienced under Cissé, appeared to be the logical choice to manage the next two November matches.

With Thiaw’s leadership already yielding two victories, speculation arises about his potential permanent appointment. Senghor remains non-committal, stating, « Pape is among the Senegalese coaches who have demonstrated their abilities, but the recruitment process hasn’t begun yet. »

Senghor highlighted the FSF’s intent to prioritize local expertise, referencing recent local coaching successes. While not dismissing the possibility of foreign coaches, he mentioned renowned Senegalese figures like Omar Daf and Habib Beye as possibilities. « Habib Beye, Omar Daf are Senegalese, but is someone like Hervé Renard, residing in Senegal, really an outsider? » he posed, indicating the FSF’s openness to various profiles that meet their criteria.

Discussing the state’s involvement, Senghor explained its crucial role in covering the national team coach’s salary, necessitating its approval. « Our close work with the state has led to great successes, including CAN victory, » he noted.

Despite external pressures, Senghor stressed that there’s no rush to appoint a new coach. « We avoided urgency by securing CAN qualification. This allows us the time to select the right candidate thoughtfully, » he said. He also mentioned that the FSF’s Executive Committee would soon convene to establish the selection criteria and procedures for the new coach.

Senghor concluded by affirming Senegal’s continued status as a leader in African football. « Our players are seasoned and have helped maintain calm during challenging times. Senegal remains on a positive trajectory, and we’ll keep moving forward together. »