Kaba Diawara has reportedly turned down an approach from the Guinean Football Federation (FGF) to return as head coach of the national team, following the dismissal of Michel Dussuyer.
The FGF announced on Friday its decision to part ways with Dussuyer, launching an open call for applicants to fill the vacancy.
The Frenchman, who had previously managed Guinea from 2002 to 2004 and again between 2010 and 2015, returned for a third stint in a bid to stabilise the team.
However, a string of underwhelming performances saw pressure mount on the 64-year-old, eventually leading to his departure.
During his latest tenure, Dussuyer failed to secure qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)—though a final appeal against Tanzania’s qualification remains pending—and oversaw a disappointing start to Guinea’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign. With just four matches remaining, the Syli National sit fifth in their group of six.
According to journalist Rémy Ngono of Radio France Internationale (RFI), the FGF had hoped Diawara would agree to take over the side once more.
But the former national team striker reportedly declined, citing his past experience with the federation as a key reason.
Diawara, who wore the number 19 shirt during his playing days, is remembered fondly by supporters for his recent achievements with the national squad.
After an early exit in the round of 16 at the 2021 AFCON, he guided Guinea to a landmark quarter-final finish at the 2023 edition of the tournament.
Additionally, he led the team to qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympics, a rare and significant feat for the country.
Despite these accomplishments, Diawara was dismissed in the aftermath of Guinea’s underwhelming showing in the Olympic tournament, where the team failed to progress beyond the group stage.
His departure was reportedly handled without the dignity or respect he felt was due, a factor that appears to have shaped his current stance.
Speaking during an appearance on Canal+ Sport Afrique, Diawara alluded to the circumstances surrounding his dismissal, suggesting he had not forgotten the treatment he received.
His rejection of the federation’s latest overture seems to reflect lingering discontent and a reluctance to re-engage under similar conditions.
As of now, Diawara remains unattached to any club or national team since his departure from the Guinea bench.
His decision leaves the FGF in search of a new head coach to lead the Syli National through the remaining World Cup qualifiers and into the next phase of continental competition.
The federation’s choice to publicly advertise the position underscores the urgency and gravity of the situation, as Guinea’s campaign risks further derailment. Whether a suitable successor can be found in time to salvage the qualifying run remains to be seen.
Meanwhile, Diawara’s refusal sends a clear message about the importance of institutional respect and professional treatment—lessons the FGF may be forced to reckon with as they move forward in search of new leadership.
Michel Dessuyer n’étant plus le sélectionneur du Syli national devait être remplacé par Kaba Diawara.
Il aurait refusé catégoriquement en raison du mauvais traitement subi lors de ses précédentes aventures avec la sélection Guinéene.
(Rémy Ngono, consultant sportif). pic.twitter.com/ZmY03jdozI
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