Gambiaj.com – (DAKAR, Senegal) – The Senegalese Football Federation has announced its decision not to renew the contract of Aliou Cissé, bringing an end to his nine-year tenure as the manager of the Senegal national football team. Cissé’s contract, which expired at the end of August, marked the conclusion of a storied chapter in Senegalese football.

Despite the decision by the Minister of Sports to part ways with the 48-year-old football icon, Cissé’s legacy with the Lions of Teranga will be remembered as one of determination, success, and resilience.

Aliou Cissé, a former Paris Saint-Germain player and national football legend, took the reins of Senegal’s national team in 2015. Under his leadership, Senegal achieved some of the most memorable moments in its football history, including the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory—Senegal’s first-ever continental title—after defeating Egypt in a tense final. The victory came three years after Cissé led the team to the 2019 AFCON final, where they narrowly lost to Algeria.

While his tenure was not without criticism, particularly regarding tactical decisions, Cissé’s record speaks for itself. Over nine years, he managed 93 matches, securing 60 victories, 22 draws, and only 12 losses.

He consistently delivered results, guiding Senegal to two consecutive World Cups in 2018 and 2022, reaching the Round of 16 in the latter tournament. On the African stage, he steered the team to four straight AFCON qualifications, often securing their spot with matches to spare.

Beyond the accolades and wins, Cissé’s leadership helped elevate Senegal’s international standing. Under his guidance, the Lions of Teranga held the top spot in the FIFA rankings for African nations for three consecutive years, a testament to the consistency and strength he brought to the team.

Cissé’s impact on Senegalese football goes beyond his coaching career. As a player, he captained the team to the 2002 AFCON final and famously led Senegal to the quarter-finals of the 2002 World Cup, a historic achievement that placed the country on the global football map.

However, despite his accomplishments, Cissé faced criticism, especially following Senegal’s early exit in the Round of 16 during the 2022 AFCON. His tactical choices often sparked debate, but his influence and contributions to Senegalese football cannot be understated.

As Senegal looks to the future with a new coach, Aliou Cissé leaves behind a legacy of excellence and pride. His name is now etched in the annals of African football, both as a player and a coach, securing his place as one of the most iconic figures in Senegal’s sporting history.