Fousseni Diawara has officially entered the race to become the next head coach of the Mali national football team. The former General Manager of the Eagles and ex-assistant coach of Guinea has declared his intentions to take on the role, expressing his commitment to revitalizing Malian football.
In an exclusive interview with Africafootunited, Diawara, who also played for AS Saint-Étienne during his career, confirmed his candidacy and outlined his vision for the team.
“I know the group, I actively participated in building it. It is time for me to apply for the position of coach,” Diawara stated, signaling his readiness to step into the leadership role.
Diawara’s extensive experience within Malian football, coupled with his deep understanding of the current squad, forms the backbone of his candidacy.
Having served as General Manager of the Eagles, Diawara played a crucial role in shaping the team and fostering its development.
His tenure as assistant coach of Guinea also adds to his coaching credentials, giving him a well-rounded perspective on managing national teams at the highest level.
However, Diawara’s candidacy comes at a time of tension between the players and the Malian Football Federation. The relationship between the squad and the federation has reportedly deteriorated, creating a challenging environment for any incoming coach.
Despite this, Diawara believes he has the necessary skills and experience to mend these fractures and guide the team forward.
“The break is complete between the players and the Malian Football Federation,” Diawara acknowledged.
His candidacy suggests he is prepared to tackle these issues head-on, with a focus on re-establishing unity and trust within the team and its management.
The position of Mali’s national coach has become a highly sought-after role, given the team’s potential and the strong pool of talent available. As the federation considers its options, Diawara’s deep ties to Malian football, both as a player and a manager, could give him an edge over other candidates.
In addition to his coaching experience, Diawara has also worked as a sports consultant, providing him with a broad understanding of the game beyond the pitch.
This expertise, combined with his hands-on experience with the Eagles, positions him as a formidable candidate for the role.
As the selection process unfolds, all eyes will be on the Malian Football Federation as it weighs Diawara’s candidacy against other contenders.
For Diawara, securing the position would mark a significant milestone in his career and offer him the opportunity to implement his vision for Malian football.
The decision on the new head coach is expected in the coming weeks, and if chosen, Diawara will face the immediate challenge of uniting the team and leading them through upcoming competitions.
His familiarity with the squad and his passion for Malian football may well prove decisive in turning the tide for the Eagles.
