Senegal international Pape Gueye has paid tribute to Aliou Cissé, describing the former Lions of Teranga coach as a transformational leader whose impact on Senegalese football will never be forgotten.
Cissé, who led Senegal to their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations title in 2021, stepped down after nearly a decade in charge following the team’s AFCON 2023 elimination to Côte d’Ivoire in the Round of 16.
His departure marked the end of an era for a team that he helped shape into one of the continent’s most dominant forces.
“We were all saddened when he left,” Gueye admitted.
“We spent a lot of time with him, especially the older players. He built something special with this team, and his departure was emotional for all of us.”
Cissé took over as Senegal’s head coach in 2015 and steadily turned the team into a powerhouse.
Under his guidance, they reached the AFCON 2019 final, secured their historic AFCON 2021 victory, and qualified for back-to-back World Cups (2018 and 2022).
Gueye, who was given his first call-up by Cissé in 2022, spoke about the coach’s leadership qualities and the respect he commanded within the squad.
“Cissé had a way of getting his message across immediately. He knew how to motivate us before matches, and his speeches were always powerful,” Gueye recalled.
“Sometimes, he even spoke in Wolof to connect with the players on a deeper level.”
Beyond tactics, Cissé’s experience as a former Senegal captain who played in the 2002 World Cup final gave him a unique understanding of what it takes to succeed on the biggest stage.
“He always reminded us, ‘This is Africa. Here, it’s about winning duels and second balls. You have to fight for every moment.’ That mindset helped us become the best team on the continent.”
Cissé’s crowning achievement was guiding Senegal to AFCON glory in 2021, a moment that will be etched in the nation’s history.
Gueye believes that the team’s winning mentality and unity were direct reflections of their former coach’s philosophy.
“He was the first coach to bring the AFCON trophy to Senegal. That alone puts him in history. He taught us how to win, and that mindset will stay with us forever.”
Despite his departure, the foundations he built remain strong as Senegal prepares for AFCON 2025 in Morocco.
They have been drawn into Group D alongside DR Congo, Benin, and Botswana, and will look to reclaim their title with a new coach at the helm.
For Gueye, Cissé’s departure was particularly significant because it was Cissé who gave him his first opportunity with the national team.
“I sent him a message to thank him for everything,” Gueye revealed. “He called me up, he trusted me, and I will always be grateful for that.”
Senegal now embarks on a new chapter, but Aliou Cissé’s influence will continue to shape the squad for years to come.
With the 2025 AFCON on the horizon, Gueye and his teammates will look to honor their former coach’s legacy by fighting for another continental title.
