Smart move or deepening the crisis? Senegal part ways with Thiaw

After 19 months at the helm, Pape Thiaw is no longer a Senegal manager, as the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) announced the decision on its official website earlier today. 

"The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) informs the public that following the meeting of the Executive Committee held this Saturday, July 11, 2026, it was decided to initiate a procedure to terminate the functions of the national coach, Mr. Pape Thiaw, as well as his entire technical staff."

"This decision comes after the elimination of the Senegal national team in the round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. After a thorough evaluation of the sporting results and prospects of the national team, the Executive Committee deemed it necessary to initiate this procedure in the best interests of Senegalese football."

This decision doesn't come as a surprise, given that Thiaw had been working without a contract for months. His excellent results appeared to have bought him some time, but once the first setback came - if a Round-of-32 defeat to Belgium can even be called one - the tactician paid the price.

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He took over the Lions of Teranga in December 2024, succeeding Aliou Cisse. In 29 games, he recorded 19 wins, 4 draws, and 6 defeats, the last of which (against the Red Devils) was undoubtedly the most painful one.

Senegal were minutes away from advancing to the Round of 16, only to concede twice in the dying minutes, blow a 2-0 lead, and eventually lose after extra time.

Senegal's AFCON hero quits national team as long as Thiaw & Co. are in charge

Given the logistical problems the team faced throughout the tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, many would consider this World Cup campaign a success, but apparently not the FSF top brass.

Earlier this year, Thiaw led Senegal to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title, but they were later stripped of the title and handed a 3-0 defeat by default. Under the 45-year-old strategist, the Lions of Teranga became arguably the strongest team on the mother continent, but now, they are back to square one.

Addio, Sadio: Mane calls time on international career

To make matters worse, they'll have to begin the inevitable rebuild without their best player and all-time leading scorer, Sadio Mane, who announced his international retirement just two days ago.

Challenging times lie ahead for Senegal, that's for sure.