Fousseni Diawara is on the verge of making a return to the touchline, with reports suggesting that the former Guinea assistant coach is being considered for the Mali U23 managerial position.
Having stepped away from coaching following his stint with the Syli National, the 44-year-old could soon be back in charge of a Malian national team.
Possible return to familiar territory
Diawara’s name has surfaced in Malian football circles as a leading candidate to take charge of the country’s U23 side.
If appointed, it would mark a return to a role he previously held at the beginning of his coaching career, providing an opportunity to reaffirm his capabilities as a head coach.
The former Mali international has primarily operated as an assistant coach in recent years, having served under Mohamed Magassouba with the senior Eagles squad and later under Kaba Diawara with Guinea.
His potential appointment would see him step back into the spotlight as the main tactician.
Experience and learning curve
While his career on the sidelines has been largely defined by his role as an assistant, Diawara has gained valuable experience working alongside established coaches.
His first spell in charge of the Mali U23 team laid the foundation for his coaching ambitions, and a second stint could provide a platform to showcase his development.
A return to the Malian setup would allow him to apply the insights he has gathered from his past experiences, particularly from his time with Guinea.
With Mali’s U23 squad looking to make strides on the continental stage, his leadership could be instrumental in shaping the team’s future.
A chance to prove himself
If confirmed, this appointment would mark a significant step for Diawara in his coaching career.
Having worked in supporting roles for years, the opportunity to take charge of the Mali U23s would be a chance to cement his reputation as a capable head coach.
For now, the Malian football federation has yet to make an official announcement, but anticipation is building over Diawara’s possible return to the national setup.
His potential reappointment would not only reunite him with Malian football but also offer him the chance to take his coaching career to the next level.