Aliou Cissé has officially addressed the media following his appointment as head coach of the Libyan national football team, making it clear that his decision was driven by ambition rather than financial incentives.
A warm welcome to Libya
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday evening, Cissé expressed gratitude to the Libyan people and football authorities for their warm reception.
“I would first like to greet all the Libyan people, all the supporters, and all the journalists who are here this evening. I also greet all the country’s authorities. It is a great source of pride and an honor to be here, and I thank you for your presence.”
Transition from Senegal to Libya
Cissé, who previously led Senegal to continental success, was questioned about his move to Libya, a team with a different footballing profile.
We all know the individual talent of Senegal; we have great players everywhere.
But to build a great team, we don’t just need great individuals.
To win a match, individual skill helps, but a strong team structure is essential.
I see a lot of potential in this Libyan team. There are some very good players.
With discipline and hard work, we can achieve great results.”
Engaging Libyan talent
When asked about his approach to integrating players from abroad, Cissé emphasized his focus on the domestic league before expanding recruitment efforts.
“Before talking about the players who are abroad, we must first focus on the talent within Libya.
The local league is attractive and highly competitive, and the national team largely consists of local players.
Our priority is to work closely with these players and coaches. Of course, we will also explore Libyan footballers playing internationally, but that will come in due course.
Cissé stressed that commitment to the national cause would be the key criterion for selection.
All players who are motivated to defend Libya’s colors will be welcome.
What matters most is their passion and dedication.
You can play for different clubs, but you only have one national team.
Our aim is to create the best conditions for players to represent their country with dignity.
Rallying the support of journalists
Acknowledging Libya’s long absence from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Cissé called for unity and support from all stakeholders, including the media.
“Libya is a football-loving nation, but for 12 years, it has not qualified for AFCON. Our goal is to change that, and we need everyone’s support—including journalists. We must work together to achieve this, as your role is essential in encouraging the team and fostering a positive atmosphere.
Rejecting financial motives
One of the most pointed questions of the evening addressed speculation about his financial incentives for accepting the job. Cissé was quick to dismiss such claims with a laugh.
In all humility, what interests me is the sporting project. I am a man of vision and long-term planning.
If I were motivated by money, I would have left Senegal long ago.
When I came here, I saw a federation and a leadership team that truly wanted me to be part of this project.
That is what drives me—not money. I stayed in Senegal for 10 years.
If financial gain was my priority, I would have left after winning the AFCON. I am not a billionaire, but Alhamdulillah, I have what I need.
A mission for AFCON qualification
Cissé reiterated his ultimate objective: guiding Libya back to AFCON qualification.
“My motivation is to coach a nation that has been absent from AFCON for too long. Libyan fans, players, and football lovers deserve to see their team compete on the biggest stages. We no longer want to watch AFCON on television; we want to be part of it. That is why I am here.”
As he embarks on this new challenge, Cissé has made it clear that his tenure will be defined by hard work, discipline, and a collective effort to bring Libyan football back to prominence.
