Following Senegal’s underwhelming performances in their recent fixtures against Burkina Faso and Burundi, calls for change are growing louder. Fans have expressed dissatisfaction, and former Senegal international Cheikh Mbengue has added his voice to those suggesting that both the coaching staff and player lineup need a fresh start. However, Mbengue is cautious about expecting immediate improvements, warning that change alone may not lead to better outcomes.
The two matches, which ended in results far below the expectations set by the reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions, have sparked widespread frustration.
Many supporters are questioning the leadership of head coach Aliou Cissé, who guided the national team to its first-ever AFCON title in 2021 but has faced increasing scrutiny as recent performances have fallen short of that success.
Cheikh Mbengue, who earned 33 caps for Senegal during his international career, believes that Cissé’s tenure may have reached its natural conclusion.
Speaking on the state of the national team, Mbengue stressed the importance of evolving both on and off the pitch.
“There comes a time when change is inevitable, whether it’s with the coaching staff or the players themselves,” said Mbengue.
“But we must remember that change does not always guarantee better results. The transition must be managed carefully.”
Mbengue’s comments reflect a broader sentiment shared by some observers who feel that the current squad has stagnated and may require a shake-up to reignite its competitive edge.
He noted that while Senegal remains a top contender in African football, it is essential to recognize when it is time for a tactical or structural overhaul to maintain the team’s elite status.
Despite these calls for change, Mbengue urged caution, emphasizing that any transition within the squad or technical staff must be well-thought-out to avoid disruptions.
“You can’t just overhaul a team without a clear strategy. It’s about finding the right balance between keeping the core of the team and introducing new talent,” he added.
As Senegal prepares for future competitions, including the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, the national team faces mounting pressure to regain the form that earned them continental glory.
Whether Aliou Cissé and his current squad can turn things around or if new leadership will be brought in remains to be seen.
For now, the discussion around change continues to dominate conversations among fans and football pundits alike.
Cheikh Mbengue’s call for a thoughtful approach to any potential changes is a reminder that while evolution is essential in sport, it must be pursued with care and foresight.
The coming months will reveal whether Senegal opts to stay the course or embrace a new direction in their quest for further success.
