A significant transition is underway for Malian football. Tom Saintfiet, who took the helm in August 2024, has concluded his tenure as the head coach of the Mali national team. This announcement was formally made by the Malian Football Federation on Tuesday evening.

The Belgian tactician successfully guided the Eagles to the quarter-finals of the recent Africa Cup of Nations (CAN). His strategy, often described as minimalist, saw the team secure three draws in the group stage, followed by a hard-fought extra-time victory against Tunisia in the round of 16. Their journey in the tournament ultimately ended with a narrow 0-1 defeat to Senegal.

Both the Federation’s official statements and Tom Saintfiet’s own communications suggest an amicable parting of ways. While earlier reports from Afrik-Foot indicated concerns from the coach regarding unpaid salaries, Saintfiet’s public gratitude towards the new president, Mahazou Baba Cisset, implies that any such issues have since been resolved.

Mali seeks new national team coach

Tom Saintfiet’s departure comes as no great surprise, especially given that Mahazou Baba Cisset had previously stated his intention to find a new coach, outlining specific criteria for the ideal candidate.

The president of the Malian Federation is actively searching for an African coach who possesses prior experience managing a team in a Cup of Nations final. This particular requirement significantly shortens the list of potential candidates, including prominent names such as Aliou Cissé (Senegal), Djamel Belmadi (Algeria), and Walid Regragui (Morocco). Speculation is rife that these esteemed coaches may already be receiving calls regarding the prestigious position.