Guinea manager Kaba Diawara faces intense scrutiny heading into the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, with daunting opponents and internal staff politics threatening progress.
Drawn against holders Senegal, five-time champions Cameroon and emerging force Gambia, Guinea must swiftly gel to gain advantage in a formidable Group C.
Appointed in 2021 after previously working as assistant, Diawara has struggled to galvanise Guinea since taking charge.
They suffered group stage elimination at AFCON 2021 on home soil under his guidance.
With the Syli Nationale regularly underperforming, Diawara’s decision-making and selections have become increasingly criticised back home.
The recent hiring of compatriot Fousseni Diawara as his number two has also raised eyebrows.
Despite previous close relations, the presence of namesake assistant Diawara may disrupt Guinea’s preparations rather than aid them given the reported friction.
In a country where football represents deep national pride as well as intense expectation, Diawara must quickly shape an organised unit capable of matching illustrious opponents.
“We know the size of the task facing us, but with the backing of our passionate fans we can achieve something special,” insisted Diawara this week.
“The players and I are solely focused on ensuring Guinea performs to its potential in Ivory Coast.
We must work hard together because progressing from this group will require excellent teamwork.”
With Guinea still seeking a maiden AFCON title since debuting in 1968, Diawara recognises the weight of expectation during this testing period.
But with squad cohesion threatened by divided loyalties behind the scenes, Guinea’s hopes of bettering quarter-final appearances in 2015 and 2019 could hinge on backroom stability.
