Former Arsenal and France midfielder Patrick Vieira has been named the new head coach of the Senegal national team, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) announced on Tuesday, August 18, 2026.
The 50-year-old, born in Dakar, takes over from Pape Thiaw, who was dismissed after Senegal’s exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the round of 32. This marks Vieira’s first role managing a national side.
Vieira won the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 with France (107 caps) and enjoyed a distinguished club career, most notably at Arsenal. As a coach he has previously managed New York City FC, Nice, Crystal Palace, Strasbourg and Genoa. 
He maintains strong links with Senegal through the Diambars Academy, which he co-founded to support young players’ development.
Reports indicate a four-year contract under a long-term project focused on qualifying for the 2030 World Cup and competing strongly at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. His first matches are expected in the September international window during AFCON qualifiers.
The official presentation details will be confirmed in due course.
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