Moussa Niakhate eager to begin Senegal work under new boss Patrick Vieira

Senegal begin their preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on Sunday, when Patrick Vieira will meet his squad for the first time since becoming head coach.

Lyon defender Moussa Niakhate is looking forward to working with the former Arsenal and France midfielder and believes Vieira can build on the work of his predecessor, Pape Thiaw.

The change in coaching staff has not unsettled Niakhate, who expects Vieira to provide continuity as Senegal seek further success.

“He was already an incredible player. He could have played in our era because he was already ahead of his time,” Niakhate told Ligue 1 plus.

“As a coach, he will bring us what he knows and what he learned at Strasbourg, Nice and Crystal Palace. I think Vieira will continue what Pape Thiaw started.

“We will be there to keep winning trophies and take Senegal as high as possible. That begins with the next international break and the Africa Cup of Nations, which takes place next summer.”

Niakhate, who will take part in the qualifying campaign, has yet to speak directly to Vieira but expects that opportunity to come soon.

“I have not yet had the chance to speak with him, but that will happen very quickly because we are heading away with the national team,” he said.

“He was officially appointed this week and arrived very late, so I have not had time yet.”