Youssoupha Dabo is set to part ways with AS Vita Club after less than a year in charge, as the Senegalese coach shifts focus to new responsibilities within international football and his professional development.
Dabo’s departure from the Congolese side is now on the verge of being formally confirmed, following days of speculation.
Initially appointed with high expectations, the 43-year-old had been balancing his duties as AS Vita Club head coach while also taking on the role of assistant to Aliou Cissé, the newly appointed head coach of Libya’s national team.
However, maintaining both positions has proven unsustainable. In addition to his national team role, Dabo is currently enrolled in the CAF A license programme, the highest coaching certification on the continent.
The demands of this course—combined with his obligations to the Libyan national team—have made it impractical for him to continue his day-to-day duties with the Kinshasa-based club.
Sources within Congolese football circles report that Dabo personally approached AS Vita Club management to request an early termination of his contract.
The club’s leadership, under the direction of president Bestine Kazadi, is said to have granted his release on amicable terms.
In a gesture of goodwill, the club commended Dabo’s conduct and professionalism during his tenure, and wished him success in his future endeavours.
Dabo’s exit marks the end of a chapter that began with optimism. He had been brought in to guide the “Vert et Noir” through both domestic and continental challenges, leveraging his experience with top African clubs and youth development.
However, his growing commitments beyond the club’s walls made his continued presence untenable.
In the interim, assistant coach Bruno Ferry has been placed in charge of first-team operations as AS Vita Club prepares to appoint a permanent replacement.
The club is expected to launch a search for a new technical team capable of continuing their push in the national league and continental competitions.
Dabo’s coaching journey has been marked by steady progression. Before arriving in the Democratic Republic of Congo, he enjoyed stints with Teungueth FC and ASC Jaraaf in Senegal, where he gained a reputation for tactical discipline and youth development.
His tenure with the Senegal U20 national team further bolstered his credentials. More recently, he coached Azam FC in Tanzania before accepting the AS Vita Club job.
Now, his new role alongside Aliou Cissé with Libya’s national team presents a fresh challenge. Cissé, the former coach of the Senegalese national team, is tasked with revitalising Libya’s campaign as they attempt to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Dabo’s knowledge of African football, combined with his technical acumen, is expected to add value to a team in need of direction and structure.
For AS Vita Club, the focus shifts to stability and succession, as they navigate a period of transition in their technical setup.
As for Youssoupha Dabo, his decision underscores a strategic career move, aiming for both continental coaching excellence and international success on a broader stage.
