Senegal consider interim option as Patrick Vieira talks remain unresolved

Patrick Vieira’s expected appointment as Senegal manager remains uncertain because of an unresolved dispute involving former coach Pape Thiaw, despite an apparent agreement between Vieira and the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF).

The federation is understood to have reached an agreement with Vieira for the former France international to take charge of the national team following Thiaw’s dismissal several weeks ago. However, the FSF is reportedly unwilling to announce the deal until outstanding matters relating to Thiaw’s departure, including compensation owed to him, have been settled.

Vieira, the 1998 World Cup winner who was born in Dakar, has reportedly been in Senegal since 29 July, according to several Senegalese sources, including journalist Sane Malang.

The former Genoa manager is said to have attended a working session overseen by FSF secretary general Abdoulaye Sow. Other federation officials were also present at the meeting, during which Vieira reportedly outlined his plans for the Lions of Teranga.

Vieira has been without a club since leaving Genoa in November 2025. His vision and ambitions for Senegal are understood to have impressed the federation’s leadership, with the team seeking a change in direction after a disappointing 2026 World Cup campaign.

Senegal were eliminated in the last 16 of that tournament, a result that has contributed to the pressure surrounding the national team and the search for a new permanent manager.

Despite the reported agreement with Vieira, the FSF could appoint national technical director Souleymane Diallo on an interim basis in September if the dispute with Thiaw is not resolved by then.

The possible temporary arrangement would come as Senegal prepare to begin their qualifying campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations next month. The federation must therefore decide whether to proceed with Vieira’s appointment or place Diallo in charge while the administrative issue is completed.

Herve Renard had also been linked with the Senegal job, but he is now set to take charge of Cote d’Ivoire. His appointment came after he had been cited as a possible target for the role in Senegal.

The FSF has not yet publicly confirmed Vieira’s appointment. Until the situation surrounding Thiaw’s compensation is resolved, the former Arsenal, France and Manchester City midfielder remains unable to formally begin his expected tenure with the Senegal national side.