Patrick Vieira is in talks to become Senegal head coach after the departure of Pape Thiaw, with negotiations still at an early stage

Former Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira is in discussions to become the next head coach of Senegal’s national football team following the departure of Pape Thiaw.

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According to Foot Mercato, cited by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, talks between Vieira and the Senegalese Football Federation are underway, although negotiations remain at an early stage and no agreement has been reached.

The federation is understood to have identified the former Arsenal captain as a leading candidate to take charge of the Teranga Lions after ending Thiaw’s tenure.

Thiaw left the role following Senegal’s exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the African side reached the Round of 32 before suffering elimination at the hands of Belgium.

Vieira, 50, brings extensive managerial experience across Europe, having previously coached New York City FC, Nice, Crystal Palace, Strasbourg and Genoa.

His reputation for developing young players and implementing an organised, possession-based style has kept him in contention for several high-profile coaching positions.

The former France international also enjoyed one of football’s most decorated playing careers, winning the 1998 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2000 with France, while captaining Arsenal during one of the club’s most successful periods under Arsène Wenger.

Should an agreement be reached, Vieira would inherit one of Africa’s strongest national teams, featuring several players competing in Europe’s top leagues.

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Senegal have established themselves among the continent’s leading football nations in recent years, winning the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations and consistently qualifying for major international tournaments.