Senegal's football federation has appointed Patrick Vieira as the country's new national team coach, but questions remain over whether the deal will actually go through, as the former France captain has not yet signed a contract and no date has been set for his official presentation. The appointment comes amid significant turmoil at the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF), including unresolved disputes over the sacking of predecessor Pape Thiaw and a pending legal ruling that could challenge the legitimacy of the federation's leadership itself.

Vieira, 50, was unanimously approved by the FSF on Monday ahead of other candidates including Patrick Kluivert, but Thiaw, sacked after Senegal's World Cup last-32 exit to Belgium, is reportedly seeking almost $815,000 (£600,000) in unpaid wages and bonuses. A Court of Arbitration for Sport ruling on the contested FSF leadership election is expected by Friday, potentially calling into question both the federation's authority and Vieira's appointment. Time pressure is mounting regardless, with Senegal due to begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Mozambique on 23 September, followed shortly after by a fixture against Ethiopia. Born in Dakar, Vieira's move represents a symbolic homecoming, though his managerial record has been notably less successful than his decorated playing career.