Senegal role is ‘an absolute dream’ – Patrick Vieira

Patrick Vieira says becoming Senegal head coach is “an absolute dream”, describing his appointment as “one from the heart” as he begins his first job in international football.

The 50-year-old, who was born in Senegal before going on to represent France, was unveiled as Teranga Lions coach in Dakar on Friday after replacing Pape Thiaw.

Vieira enjoyed one of football’s most decorated playing careers, winning the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 with France, while also becoming an Arsenal legend during his time in north London.

Now, after managerial spells with New York City, Nice, Crystal Palace, Strasbourg and Genoa, he says leading the country of his birth carries special significance.

“Being head coach of the Senegal national team is an absolute dream,” Vieira told a news conference.

“I was born here, my parents were born here, and it really is a homecoming.”

The former midfielder said he accepted the role immediately after meeting Senegal Football Federation president Augustin Senghor, believing the squad has the quality to achieve major success.

“From the very first meetings I had with the federation president, I accepted this challenge straight away, because there was also an exceptional generation of players,” he said.

“I realise the expectations of the people – all 20 million Senegalese. And I know that with the experience I have, with the determination I have, I’ll be able to see this project through.”

Vieira inherits a side regarded as one of Africa’s strongest, with Senegal aiming to build on recent successes after winning the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations and becoming regular contenders at major international tournaments.

His first matches in charge will come later this month when Senegal begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

The Teranga Lions travel to face Mozambique on 25 September before hosting Ethiopia four days later as Vieira begins his bid to guide the team back to continental glory.