Official: Claude Le Roy appointed coach of Congo, Omar Daf named assistant coach
The Red Devils of Congo are turning a new page in their history with the official appointment of French coach Claude Le Roy to lead the national team. A prominent figure in African football, the 78-year-old strategist is making his grand return to the Congolese bench with the ambition of restoring the national team’s former glory. To accomplish this mission, he will be joined by Senegalese coach Omar Daf, who has been named assistant coach.
This decision, announced by Congolese sports authorities, aims to revitalize a team that has struggled with inconsistent results and frequent changes in its technical staff for several years. Claude Le Roy’s return is seen as a bold choice by the leaders, who are banking on his vast experience in African football to get the Red Devils back on the path to success.
According to a statement from the Congolese Ministry of Sports, the official contract signing ceremony is scheduled for June 22, 2026, in Brazzaville. This event will bring together government representatives, officials from the Congolese Football Federation, and members of the new technical staff. The contract will bind the Congolese state and the two coaches to a project aimed at restructuring and sustainably strengthening the national team.
For Claude Le Roy, this return carries special significance. The French coach knows the Congolese football environment well, having previously managed the Red Devils. His experience on the African continent is substantial, having coached several national teams and participated in numerous Africa Cup of Nations campaigns. His expertise, understanding of African football realities, and ability to build competitive squads are major assets for this new challenge.
Alongside him, Omar Daf will also bring his know-how and experience. A former Senegalese international turned recognized coach, he will assist Claude Le Roy in implementing the sports project. The duo will work to improve the national team’s performance while fostering the emergence of new talents capable of securing the future of Congolese football.
🚨 The French coach Claude Le Roy 🇫🇷 is appointed coach of the Red Devils of Congo 🇨🇬.
The Frenchman returns to lead the Congolese team. He will be supported by Senegalese Omar Daf 🇸🇳 who is named assistant coach of the Red Devils. pic.twitter.com/Gg1HX15kYp
— Foot d'Afrique (@Foot_dafrique) June 9, 2026
The country’s sports authorities have set clear objectives. The top priority will be qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations 2027, a competition Congo aims to return to in order to reconnect with its continental ambitions. Beyond immediate results, the project also seeks to strengthen technical organization, improve player development, and create a sustainable dynamic around the national team.
With the arrival of Claude Le Roy and Omar Daf, the Red Devils hope to open a new chapter in their history. With experience, rigor, and a desire for reconstruction, this tandem carries the heavy responsibility of restoring hope to Congolese supporters and placing Congo among the most competitive nations in Africa.
