Coach Alain Giresse Urges Issa Cissokho to Stay Grounded Amid National Team Criticism
Alain Giresse, former Senegal national team coach and incoming Gabon manager, has publicly advised Nantes right-back Issa Cissokho to adopt a more modest attitude regarding his abilities. Speaking on RMC’s After Foot programme, Giresse criticized Cissokho’s self-perception following his national team call-ups.
Reflecting on his time selecting players for the Senegal squad, Giresse expressed frustration at what he perceives as Cissokho’s inflated sense of status. “From the moment I selected Issa Cissokho for Nantes, I had the impression that as soon as I didn’t select him, he thought he was the best right-back in the world,” Giresse said. “With all due respect to the boy, he seemed to believe he had become a great player simply because he had been called up for the national team. You have to keep things in perspective.”
The former midfielder, who enjoyed a decorated playing career with France and has managed several African national teams, was appearing as a guest on the show to discuss the challenges of building a balanced national squad. His comments about Cissokho came as part of a broader reflection on player mentality and professionalism.
Issa Cissokho, who has impressed at club level with Nantes, has recently been involved with the Senegal national team, earning praise for his defensive contributions. However, Giresse’s remarks suggest the coach believes Cissokho needs to focus more on consistent performance and humility rather than individual accolades.
The Senegalese right-back will now likely face pressure to respond on the pitch, proving that his confidence aligns with his quality. For a player still establishing himself internationally, maintaining a level-headed approach is often key to long-term success.
Alain Giresse himself is set to take over as head coach of Gabon, continuing his extensive involvement in African football. His experience both as a player and coach lends weight to his observations, making his candid assessment of Cissokho all the more noteworthy.
As national teams prepare for upcoming fixtures, the emphasis on mental discipline alongside technical ability remains a crucial factor in squad selection and player development. Giresse’s call for perspective serves as a reminder to all players about the importance of balancing confidence with humility in their careers.
