World Cup manager sacked along with entire coaching staff and Arsenal legend could replace him

Jul 12, 2026 - 09:45

Senegal have confirmed that they have sacked manager Pape Thiaw after the country suffered World Cup knockout heartache last week.

The Teranga Lions were 2-0 up late on against Belgium in their last-32 clash before a shocking collapse ultimately ended in a 3-2 defeat.

Senegal had been managed by Thiaw since December 2024

Senegal, who were dramatically stripped of the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year, started their World Cup campaign with two losses.

Sadio Mane and co. were beaten by both France and Norway to leave them on the brink of an early elimination before they thrashed Iraq.

A 5-0 win in their final group game was enough for Senegal to take the last spot of the best-placed teams to finish third.

And the West African nation looked to have further upset the odds in their first knockout match by taking a two-goal lead against Belgium.

Senegal, ranked six places below the ninth-ranked Red Devils, were mere minutes from setting up a last-16 tie with the hosts, USA.

However, Romelu Lukaku halved the deficit in the 86th minute before Youri Tielemans’ header three minutes later forced extra-time.

The Aston Villa star then scored a controversial penalty in the 125th minute to break Senegalese hearts.

Following the crushing defeat, Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye says he will be ‘taking a break’ from playing for his national team while the current management is in charge.

The 27-year-old has now got his wish, with the Senegal Football Federation (FSF) revealing it had dismissed Thiaw.

Senegal sack manager Thiaw

A statement said: “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.

Pape Gueye consoles Senegal teammate — Gueye was not pleased with the Senegal backroom staff at full time against Belgium

“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.

“To this end, the President of the Senegalese Football Federation, Mr Abdoulaye Fall, has been mandated to bring this decision to the attention of the competent authority and to ensure official notification to the person concerned, in accordance with the statutory, regulatory and contractual provisions in force.

“Also, the Executive Committee mandated the President to take all necessary measures for a genuine reorganisation of all national teams.

“Furthermore, the President of the Senegalese Football Federation will hold a press conference on Monday, July 13, 2026, at 4 p.m., at the Léopold Sédar Senghor stadium.

“This meeting with the media will be an opportunity to present the reasons for this decision, to take stock of the situation of the national team and to discuss the prospects for the future.

Patrick Vieira is said to be a contender for the Senegal job

“The Senegalese Football Federation reaffirms its commitment to act in accordance with procedures, transparency and good governance, with the sole objective of preserving the best interests of Senegalese football.”