Newly appointed coach of Lions of Teranga, Pape Thiaw displays a clear ambition: to energize the Senegalese national team by integrating new talents and rejuvenating its squad. A few months before the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, it is already laying the foundations of a strategy focused on the future.
To strengthen the team, Pape Thiaw has set his sights on several players playing abroad. Yehvann Dioufthe promising Franco-Senegalese goalkeeper from Stade de Reims, is one of the first to appear on his list. The player recently confirmed having had discussions with the coach, which could mark the start of an integration within the Lions.
Moreover, Malick Thiawcentral defender of AC Milan and naturalized German in 2021, is also in the sights of the Senegalese staff. Contacts with his entourage have reportedly been established, and a visit to Italy is planned to advance negotiations.
On the other hand, Ilay Camara, young versatile player playing in Belgium, remains for the moment at the level of a simple track. Although his profile is of interest to the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF), no official contact has yet been made with him.
With the 2026 World Cup qualifiers scheduled for March 2025, Pape Thiaw has no time to lose. These first steps demonstrate his desire to build a competitive team capable of keeping Senegal among the great nations of African and world football.
Beyond sporting performances, Pape Thiaw’s approach reflects a global strategy: rejuvenating the squad while diversifying profiles to better meet the demands of modern football. By relying on talents from the diaspora, it aims to enrich the Senegalese pool while consolidating the foundations of an ambitious team.
Senegal
