Senegalese coach Cheikh Guèye has formally applied to lead Senegal U20 and U23 national teams, signalling his ambition to return to the country’s football structure after a successful spell abroad.
Guèye, who is currently in charge of Loto-Popo in the Beninese top flight, confirmed his candidacy in an interview with Le Soleil Sports.
His application follows a recent call for candidates by Senegal’s football authorities as they seek to strengthen their youth national teams.
The coach’s move comes on the back of an impressive managerial record in Senegal, where he previously enjoyed success with clubs including Teungueth FC, ASC Jaraaf, Guédiawaye FC and Stade de Mbour.
His most notable achievement came in 2024 when he led Teungueth FC to a historic treble, winning the league title, League Cup and Champions Trophy.
Despite that success, Guèye left the club and moved to Benin, a decision he says was driven by a desire to experience a different football environment.
He also pointed to the departure of key attacking players at Teungueth FC, which he believed would have made it difficult to compete effectively in continental competitions.
Now, he is looking to channel that experience into youth development at national level.
Guèye believes his background and qualifications place him in a strong position to guide Senegal’s next generation of players.
The tactician has undergone training in Spain and holds a UEFA Pro License, as well as a Sporting Director diploma from the University of Antonio de Nebrija. He also possesses a sports management certification from FIFA’s International Centre for Sports Studies (CIES), underlining his academic and technical credentials.
On the pitch, Guèye is known for promoting a possession-based style of play, built around collective teamwork and tactical flexibility.
His approach adapts to the strengths of his squad and the demands of each match, a philosophy he hopes to bring to the national youth teams if appointed.
While pursuing his national team ambitions, Guèye remains focused on his current responsibilities with Loto-Popo. The club is currently second in the league standings with 45 points, just two behind leaders Coton FC, keeping them firmly in contention for the title.
His immediate goal is to win the Beninese championship and secure qualification for CAF interclub competitions, further strengthening his coaching credentials.
Beyond his own career, he expressed confidence in Senegal’s senior national team, suggesting that the current squad has the tactical maturity required to compete at the highest level, including at the 2026 World Cup.
