Veteran French coach Claude Le Roy has officially been appointed head coach of the Republic of Congo national team, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Red Devils as they seek a return to Africa’s biggest football competitions.
The 78-year-old signed a two-year contract with the Congolese Football Federation (FECOFOOT) on Monday, 22 June 2026, during a ceremony in Brazzaville attended by FECOFOOT interim president Henry Endzanga and Sports Minister Hugues Ngouelondélé.
Le Roy’s appointment comes at a crucial time for Congolese football, with the federation looking to rebuild the national team and restore its competitiveness on the continental and global stage.
The experienced French tactician has been tasked with leading the Red Devils back to major tournaments, with qualification for both the Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA World Cup identified as key objectives.
His return to African football brings one of the continent’s most familiar coaching figures back into the international game.
Over the years, Le Roy has managed several African national teams and built a reputation as one of the most experienced foreign coaches to work on the continent.
Speaking after formally taking charge, Le Roy outlined some of his immediate priorities. Among them is the desire to strengthen the national team by convincing players with Congolese heritage to represent the country.
Two names already on his radar are Dilane Bakwa and Bradley Locko.
The new coach indicated that he hopes to persuade both players to commit their international futures to Congo as part of his plans to build a stronger squad capable of competing at the highest level.
The recruitment of talented players eligible for Congo could prove vital as the Red Devils attempt to close the gap on some of Africa’s leading football nations.
Le Roy will not be working alone in his latest coaching challenge. Former Senegal international Oumar Daf has been appointed assistant coach and officially signed his contract alongside the Frenchman.
The partnership is expected to combine Le Roy’s vast experience with the knowledge and energy of a younger coach who has already established himself within African football.
Le Roy spoke highly of Daf following the appointment, describing him as a coach with significant potential and someone capable of carrying the project forward in the future.
The move also highlights a broader vision beyond short-term results.
While the immediate focus remains qualification for major tournaments, the new technical team appears determined to lay foundations that can benefit Congolese football in the years ahead.
For Congo, the appointment represents a statement of ambition.
After years of struggling to consistently challenge on the international stage, the federation has turned to one of African football’s most recognised coaching figures in the hope of sparking a revival.
Whether Le Roy can guide the Red Devils back to the Africa Cup of Nations and eventually the World Cup remains to be seen, but expectations will be high as he begins his latest mission on the continent.
With a two-year contract now signed and a new coaching staff in place, Congo’s rebuilding process is officially underway.
