Aliou Cissé set to become Libya head coach

Aliou Cissé is back in the dugout. Linked with a club or national team job since his contract with Senegal was not renewed, and at one point approached by Mauritania, the 2022 Africa champion is finally set to bounce back in Libya. He was in Tripoli last week for the festivities surrounding the opening of the capital's new stadium, and the coach held talks with members of the Libyan Football Federation.

Things have now become concrete because, according to Sport News Africa, Cissé will take charge of the Mediterranean Knights. The parties have agreed a 2-year contract with the aim of qualifying Libya for the 2027 AFCON. If they qualify, he will receive an extension of 2 further years.

An expanded head coach role

It is a challenge for Aliou Cissé, whose remit will not be limited to the senior side. He will also oversee the U23 and U20 teams, with a view to setting up a proper programme across the Libyan national sides, in a role close to that of a technical director (DTN). It should mean he earns a salary well above what he was on with Senegal, close to double.

A sizeable challenge for Cissé, who is expected in Libya on 5 March to finalise the last details of his contract and be officially unveiled. He will therefore be in charge for matchdays 5 and 6 of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. With 7 points, the Libyans are 2nd in Group D, level with Cape Verde and 1 point behind Cameroon. Libya host Angola, before travelling to face the Indomitable Lions.