Mali FA shortlists Florent Ibenge, Badou Zaki and three others for vacant coaching job

The Malian Football Federation has intensified their pursuit of a new head coach following the departure of Tom Saintfiet.

The 53-year-old Belgian tactician stepped down as head coach of the Eagles after two-year spell in charge. Days after his exit, the Malian FA opened applications in an attempt to land a new trainer for upcoming assignments.

According to the Federation, a total of 28 applications were submitted and carefully reviewed by the selection committee. After an evaluation process based on technical competence, experience, and suitability for the national team project, five candidates have now been officially shortlisted.

The names retained for the final phase include highly respected Congolese tactician Florent Ibenge, experienced Malian coach Mohamed Magassouba, former Morocco boss Badou Zaki, as well as Portuguese coaches António Conceição and Anthony Da Silva.

The Federation stated that the five candidates were selected because their profiles best matched the criteria established for the position. The shortlisted coaches are all known for their extensive experience either in African football or international competitions, making the final decision particularly intriguing.

Among the names, Florent Ibenge stands out as one of the most accomplished coaches on the continent. The DR Congo tactician has built a strong reputation through successful spells with clubs and national teams, particularly for his tactical discipline and ability to manage high-pressure environments.

Mohamed Magassouba is also a familiar figure in Malian football. Having previously coached the national team, he possesses valuable knowledge of the country’s football structure and player pool. His understanding of local football culture could work in his favour during the selection process.

Badou Zaki, meanwhile, remains one of the most respected coaching figures in North African football. The former Moroccan international goalkeeper has managed several clubs and national teams over the years and brings vast experience at both domestic and continental levels.

Portuguese duo António Conceição and Anthony Da Silva complete the shortlist. Conceição is widely known in African football circles after managing Cameroon and several club sides, while Da Silva represents another experienced European option as Mali continue evaluating different tactical profiles for the job.

The next phase of the recruitment process will involve formal interviews between the shortlisted candidates and the Malian Football Federation’s Commission. These discussions are expected to focus on the coaches’ sporting projects, long-term vision, tactical philosophy, and plans for the future of the national team.

Following the interview stage, the Federation’s Commission will recommend the most suitable candidate to the Executive Committee, which will then make the final decision on who becomes Mali’s next head coach.

The appointment comes at a crucial period for Malian football. The national team continues to boast one of the most talented squads on the African continent, with several players starring in top European leagues. Expectations remain high for the Eagles to compete strongly in upcoming continental tournaments and World Cup qualifying campaigns.

Supporters will now eagerly await the Federation’s final choice, hoping the next coach can unlock the full potential of a generation widely regarded as one of the most gifted in the country’s history.

With experienced African football minds and European tacticians all in the running, Mali’s coaching search has quickly become one of the most closely watched managerial races on the continent.