Aliou Cissé, architect of Senegal's success, leaves the Lions after nine years in charge
Aliou Cissé is no longer Senegal head coach. He leaves the Lions after 9 years full of emotion and an Africa Cup of Nations triumph.
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Appointed in 2015, Aliou Cissé quickly gave fresh impetus to a Senegal side in search of their first continental title. The high point of his tenure was the historic victory at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations. That triumph gave Senegal their first continental title, after decades of failed attempts. It cemented his place among the greats of Senegalese football, alongside qualification for two World Cups, in 2018 and 2022, where Senegal reached the last 16.
An unquestionable record, but a mixed final few months
Under his stewardship, Cissé racked up 70 wins, 24 draws and only 13 defeats. Figures that would make plenty of national team coaches on the continent envious. However, the final stretch of his tenure was marked by performances judged disappointing, notably in qualifying for the 2026 World Cup and the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, as well as a style of play criticised by part of the public. The lack of fluidity and the recent results led to a gradual disenchantment between supporters and the national team, despite Cissé's aura.
STATEMENT 👇
The FSF wishes to thank Mr Aliou CISSE for his good cooperation and his brilliant results at the head of the various national teams he has managed since his arrival in 2011, and wishes him every success for the future. pic.twitter.com/W6Lxt7E9cw
— Equipe du Sénégal (@GaindeYi) October 2, 2024
Growing public pressure
According to sources close to the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF), the decision not to renew Cissé's contract was reportedly influenced by public pressure and recurring criticism of the style of play and the management of matches. The Ministry of Sports, which largely funds the national team's activities, came down in favour of a change. A confidential letter sent to the FSF ended the federation's hopes of a one-year extension.
Read more: Aliou Cissé, caught between a contractual impasse and supporters' disenchantment
The decision comes at a crucial time, only a few days before the squad list is due for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The federation must now move quickly to name a successor, with a stated preference for a Senegalese coach, according to early information.
Aliou Cissé's legacy
Despite this abrupt ending, Aliou Cissé leaves an indelible legacy. A former captain of the national team, he managed to bring in young talent while retaining a solid core of experienced players. Under his tenure, Senegal became an undeniable force in African football, and their victories resonated well beyond the country's borders.
Senegal now stand at a turning point. The Cissé chapter is closed, but the challenge remains immense for his successor, who will need to reinvigorate the team and, above all, rekindle the bond between the Lions and their fans. Cissé, for his part, leaves with his head held high, proud of his achievements and the key role he played in raising Senegalese football's profile on the international stage.