Senegal’s football authorities have confirmed that Aliou Cissé’s contract as head coach will not be renewed, bringing an end to his successful nine-year stint. Cissé, who guided Senegal to their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title and secured two World Cup qualifications, departs following growing pressure and criticism.

The 48-year-old coach had come under scrutiny after Senegal’s unexpected exit in the round of 16 at the 2023 AFCON, where they were eliminated on penalties by hosts Côte d’Ivoire. Although the team remained unbeaten in six matches since then, home draws with the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burkina Faso, combined with complaints over their style of play, led to the decision to part ways.

In a statement, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) expressed gratitude for Cissé’s contributions: “The FSF would like to thank Aliou Cissé for his good collaboration and his brilliant results at the head of the various national selections since his arrival in 2011 and wish him every success for the future.”

The FSF cited Cissé’s failure to meet the goals outlined in his last contract, which expired in August 2023, as a reason for his departure. The targets included winning the 2023 AFCON and reaching the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup. Additional factors, such as Senegal’s drop in the FIFA rankings and concerns about waning public support, also played a role in the decision.

Cissé, a former captain of the Senegalese national team, first took charge as coach in 2015 after a brief stint as caretaker in 2012. Under his leadership, Senegal reached the finals of the 2019 AFCON but lost to Algeria. However, they redeemed themselves in 2021, beating Egypt in the final to claim their first AFCON title. Cissé also led the team to the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, with Senegal reaching the last 16 in Qatar before losing to England.

The FSF will appoint an interim technical team to guide Senegal through their upcoming AFCON qualifiers against Malawi on October 11 and 15.