Senegal's football federation (FSF) is in turmoil following a controversy involving former coach Aliou Cissé's assistant, Régis Bogaert, and the federation's handling of a dispute with Pape Thiaw, the coach of the national U23 team. The affair has cast a shadow over the federation as it prepares to welcome former France international Patrick Vieira as the new head coach of the senior national team.
According to reports, the FSF has been accused of mishandling a contract dispute with Thiaw, who led Senegal to a bronze medal at the 2024 Olympic Games. Thiaw's contract expired in July 2026, and despite his success, the federation has not offered him a renewal, leading to criticism from fans and analysts. The federation has denied any wrongdoing, stating that Thiaw's contract was not renewed due to a change in technical direction.
Patrick Vieira, who has been linked with the Senegal job since Cissé's departure in July 2026, is expected to be officially announced as the new coach in the coming days. Vieira, who previously managed Crystal Palace and Strasbourg, has been out of work since leaving the French club in 2024. His appointment is seen as a fresh start for the national team, but the Thiaw affair threatens to overshadow his arrival.
The FSF has called for calm and unity, urging all parties to focus on the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. However, the controversy has raised questions about the federation's governance and its treatment of local coaches. The Senegalese sports ministry has not commented on the matter, but it is expected to intervene if the situation escalates.
