A new chapter begins for the national football team of Mali. Having taken the reins in August 2024, Tom Saintfiet is no longer the head coach of the Aigles. The announcement was formalized on Tuesday night by the Malian Federation.
The Belgian strategist managed to lead the squad to the quarter-finals of the CAN using a pragmatic tactical approach. After securing three draws during the group stage, Mali earned a hard-fought victory against Tunisia in extra time during the round of 16. Their journey eventually reached its conclusion following a narrow 0-1 loss to Sénégal.
According to the official press releases issued by the Federation and Tom Saintfiet himself, the two parties are parting ways on professional terms. While there were earlier reports regarding outstanding salary payments, the warm words shared by the coach toward the new president, Mahazou Baba Cisset, suggest that these matters have been successfully addressed.
A fresh search for Mali’s next technical leader
The exit of Tom Saintfiet was largely anticipated, especially after Mahazou Baba Cisset publicly discussed his vision for the team’s future and the specific profile he desires for the coaching role.
The president of the Malian Federation is reportedly looking for an African coach who has already reached a final in the Africa Cup of Nations. This strict criterion points toward a very select group of elite managers, including Aliou Cissé from Sénégal, Djamel Belmadi of Algérie, and Walid Regragui representing Maroc. Discussions with these high-profile candidates could already be in motion.
