Patrick Vieira says it is "an honour" to become Senegal head coach, calling the decision "one from the heart". The 50-year-old was born in the West African nation but represented France as a player, winning the 1998 World Cup and 2000 European Championship.

The former Arsenal midfielder spoke of his "immense pride" at his unveiling by the Teranga Lions on Friday. "Being head coach of the Senegal national team is an absolute dream," he said in Dakar. "I was born here, my parents were born here, and it really is a homecoming."

Vieira takes over after the dismissal of Pape Thiaw, inheriting a side that exited the 2026 World Cup in the last 32, losing 3-2 to Belgium after extra time. Senegal won the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title, but the trophy's destination will be decided by the Court of Arbitration for Sport after a walk-off in the final.

"Today, Senegal is among the major nations in world football," Vieira said. He plans to build a side with "a very precise structure" playing with "intensity and aggression". His stint begins with two away trips in 2027 Afcon qualifiers.