Pape Bouna Thiaw, recently selected by the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) as the next head coach of the national team, has already commenced work on bolstering the squad despite not yet formalizing his contract.
While official approval from the Ministry of Sports, responsible for covering his salary, is still pending, the FSF announced its decision on December 13.
Khady Diène Gaye, Senegal’s Minister of Sports, clarified the current status during an interview with 2stv on December 30.
I received a letter this morning dated December 27, signed by the FSF president.
I called him, and we will speak during the week,” she explained.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the growth of football and other sports, emphasizing the state’s role in paying the coach’s salary after the federation selects the candidate.
Discussions between the FSF and the ministry are expected to finalize the details of Thiaw’s compensation.
According to Wiwsport, the contract is likely to be signed in the coming days, well ahead of the January 27 draw for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Marrakech, Morocco, which Thiaw is expected to attend.
Even without a signed contract, Thiaw has wasted no time laying the groundwork for the team’s future.
Focused on rejuvenating and diversifying the squad, he has been actively engaging potential new recruits, including dual nationals who could represent Senegal internationally.
Among the players on Thiaw’s radar is Yehvann Diouf, the Franco-Senegalese goalkeeper from Stade de Reims.
Diouf confirmed during a press conference that he had spoken directly with the coach.
Meanwhile, discussions are reportedly ongoing with Malick Thiaw, AC Milan’s central defender who was naturalized as a German citizen in 2021.
Thiaw’s recruitment efforts include plans to meet with Malick Thiaw’s entourage, with a visit to Italy reportedly in the works.
Interest has also been noted in Ilay Camara, a 21-year-old versatile player based in Belgium.
However, no direct discussions have taken place with the player, although sources suggest the FSF has expressed interest.
The Lions’ next major commitment is in March 2025, with qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon.
With Pape Bouna Thiaw proactively assembling a competitive squad, Senegal’s national team is poised for an exciting new chapter under his leadership, pending the official formalization of his appointment.
