Togo Coaching Role Attracts Interest from Former Mauritania Boss Patrice Neveu
Togo’s search for a new national team coach has drawn interest from a host of candidates, including experienced Frenchman Patrice Neveu, BBC Sport understands.
The Togolese Football Federation (FTF), currently under a Normalisation Committee, is in ongoing discussions with the country’s Ministry of Sports to identify the right profile to lead the Sparrowhawks forward. The position has become one of the most sought-after in African football, with numerous applications flooding in amid the vacancy.
Among the applicants is Patrice Neveu, a well-travelled coach with considerable experience across the African continent. Out of contract since his departure from the Mauritanian national team in July 2014, Neveu is keen to return to the touchline and sees Togo as an exciting opportunity.
Speaking exclusively to BBC Sport, Neveu confirmed that he had submitted his application.
“Togo is a country that has always interested me,” he said. “A few years ago, I was close to signing with the national team, but it didn’t materialise. Still, I never gave up on the idea. There’s real potential there with some quality players.”
“Once I heard the position was open, I sent in my application—just like many other coaches have likely done. That’s all I can say for now.”
The 60-year-old brings a wealth of experience to the table, having previously coached DR Congo and Guinea, in addition to his most recent stint with Mauritania, which ended after their elimination in the preliminary rounds of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Neveu’s interest adds to an already competitive pool of candidates. Last week, reports emerged that German manager Klaus Toppmöller, formerly of Bayer Leverkusen and the Georgian national team, had also expressed an interest in the post.
Togo, once a rising force in West African football and 2006 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, are looking to rebuild following a period of underwhelming performances and administrative transitions. The appointment of a new coach is seen as a pivotal step in reviving the fortunes of the national side, which has struggled to replicate the success of its golden generation.
While no timeline has been officially announced for the appointment, insiders suggest the authorities are taking a methodical approach to ensure the next coach can not only build a competitive squad but also bring long-term stability to the national setup.
As the process continues, the FTF is expected to narrow down its shortlist in the coming weeks, with a final decision likely to be influenced by both technical expertise and familiarity with the African football landscape—qualities Neveu certainly possesses.
