Lamine Sané has called for patience as Pape Thiaw begins to shape a new chapter for the Senegal national team. Speaking to 13football, the former Lions captain urged supporters to allow the current head coach the time and space to build his vision during what he described as a transitional period for the side.
The 37-year-old, who wore the armband during some of Senegal’s most challenging and formative years, reflected on the weight of expectations following the success under former coach Aliou Cissé.
Sané made it clear that while Thiaw has taken over a team with a proud recent history, he should not be burdened with comparisons and instead be allowed to grow into the role on his own terms.
“The team is rebuilding with many young players. This is a phase that requires time,” Sané said. “We can’t expect everything to fall into place immediately. Pape Thiaw has shown that he deserves this opportunity. What he needs now is patience from everyone.”
Sané’s comments come at a crucial time for Senegalese football, as the national team begins a generational shift. With several senior players gradually stepping aside, the squad is increasingly populated by emerging talents a shift that brings both promise and unpredictability.
For Sané, who has always expressed a deep connection to the Lions, this process is natural and necessary.
“Transitions are never easy. But it’s the only way to secure long-term success,” he explained. “The foundations laid by Aliou Cissé were strong. Now Pape Thiaw needs to put his stamp on this group without always being held up against the past.”
Sané also emphasized the importance of continued support for the new coaching staff, particularly from the Senegalese public and football authorities.
He argued that Thiaw’s appointment was well-earned, especially after his previous work at youth level, and that his leadership could offer new momentum to a side looking to remain at the top of African football.
“He’s not there by chance,” Sané added. “He’s someone who has proven his commitment to the country and to football development. That has to count for something.”
Now retired from professional football, Sané remains closely tied to the sport in Senegal. He has expressed a strong desire to contribute to the broader development of the game alongside other well-known former players, including Demba Ba. For him, this is not just a return to his roots, but a responsibility to give back.
“Senegal gave me everything,” he said simply. “It’s only natural that I stay connected and try to help in any way I can.”
With Pape Thiaw now tasked with guiding Senegal into a new era, voices like Sané’s may prove vital in calming nerves and maintaining perspective.
For a team so often judged by immediate results, the former captain’s message is clear — building something lasting takes time.
