Patrick Vieira embraces Senegal challenge after mixed managerial spell

Patrick Vieira says he is confident he can meet the expectations of Senegal supporters after being appointed head coach of the Teranga Lions.

The 50-year-old returns to his country of birth for his first international management role, having experienced mixed fortunes during a managerial career that has not matched the success he enjoyed as a player.

Vieira won the World Cup and European Championship with France and enjoyed a trophy-laden playing career, but his transition into management has proved more challenging.

He left Crystal Palace in March 2023 after winning 22 of his 74 matches in all competitions. Vieira then spent a season at Strasbourg before taking charge of Genoa.

The former Arsenal midfielder guided Genoa to safety in Serie A during the 2024-25 season, but was dismissed in November after six defeats in nine league matches at the beginning of last season, leaving the club at the bottom of the table.

Despite those setbacks, Vieira says his experiences have helped him develop as a coach.

“When you talk about my coaching career, or a certain amount of experience, I’ve always been someone who stays positive,” he said.

“That means you learn, and there are always positive things to take from it. I’m a better coach today than I was in my last spell at Genoa, because that experience helped me grow and made me realise certain things.

“Given the experience I have as a manager, I’ve got no doubt about my ability to meet the expectations of fans.”

Vieira received a warm welcome when he arrived in Dakar on Thursday evening, with supporters gathering at the capital’s airport to greet the new coach.

Videos shared on social media showed Vieira holding a Senegal flag while shaking hands with fans.

“I couldn’t have been given a warmer welcome. I saw the supporters’ enthusiasm and I thank them for it,” he said.

“Taking charge of this national team isn’t just a new stage in my career – it’s coming back home.”

Vieira’s first competitive tests will come later this month when Senegal begin their qualifying campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Teranga Lions travel to Mozambique on 25 September before hosting Ethiopia four days later.

Vieira will be tasked with guiding Senegal back to continental success after taking over from Pape Thiaw, who was dismissed following the team’s elimination from the 2026 World Cup.

The new coach will therefore have little time to settle into the role as he begins preparations for his first two competitive matches with a Senegal side seeking to re-establish itself among Africa’s leading teams.