Former Mali international Mohamed “Momo” Sissoko has been appointed international advisor to the president of the Malian Football Federation (FEMAFOOT), in a move seen as part of a broader effort to reconnect the country’s football administration with former players and the international game.
The appointment marks another example of ex-Malian internationals taking increasingly influential roles within the national football structure as the federation attempts to strengthen its sporting project ahead of future continental and global competitions.
Sissoko’s new role was confirmed during a visit to Paris by senior officials from Malian football, where meetings were held with several leading members of the national team.
The former midfielder, who represented Mali 34 times during his playing career, joins the federation at a time when former Eagles players are becoming more visible in football administration and technical leadership.
Earlier, former international Fousseni Diawara had publicly announced his candidacy for the role of Mali national team coach, highlighting a growing push by ex-players to shape the future direction of football in the West African nation.
Sissoko’s appointment is viewed by many supporters as an attempt by the federation’s new executive committee to open itself more strongly to international football structures and benefit from the experience of players who competed at the highest level in Europe.
During the Paris visit, discussions reportedly focused on the future of the Mali national team, organisational matters and the broader ambitions of the federation’s new leadership.
Several current Eagles players attended the meetings, including captain Hamari Traoré, midfielder Amadou Haidara and winger Nene Dorgeles.
Goalkeeper Djigui Diarra joined the discussions remotely through video conference, while former Mali international Samba Sow, now serving as general manager of the national team, also participated.
It was during those meetings that Sissoko was officially handed the title of “International Advisor”.
Although the exact responsibilities attached to the role remain unclear, the official document reportedly states that “his duties will cover all areas entrusted to him by the Chairman of the Executive Committee.”
At 41, Sissoko brings considerable experience from European football.
The former midfielder enjoyed a career that saw him play at the highest level of the game and become part of a generation of Malian footballers widely admired across Africa.
Alongside players such as Mahamadou Diarra and Seydou Keita, Sissoko formed part of a talented Mali midfield during a period when expectations surrounding the national team were particularly high.
While that generation did not achieve the major international success many supporters hoped for, its players remain highly respected figures within Malian football circles.
For FEMAFOOT, the decision to involve former internationals appears aimed not only at improving technical and organisational expertise, but also at rebuilding trust and unity around the national team project.
The federation’s outreach to senior players during the Paris meetings also suggests a desire for closer communication between administrators and members of the current squad.
Across Africa, several football federations have increasingly turned to former internationals for leadership and advisory positions, believing their understanding of elite football environments can help modernise national structures.
In Mali, supporters reacting on social media largely welcomed Sissoko’s arrival within the federation, praising both his international experience and his connection to the national team.
Many fans hope the involvement of respected former players can help guide Malian football into a more stable and ambitious era.
