The departure of Pape Thiaw from the national team continues to spark reactions in the Senegalese football world. After several former internationals, observers, and football figures, it’s now Idrissa Gana Gueye’s turn to break his silence. The Lions’ midfielder, regarded as one of the most respected figures in the locker room, wanted to send a public message to his now former coach. It was a simple yet powerful statement that reflects the bond of respect and gratitude he had with the Senegalese coach.
Since the announcement of Pape Thiaw’s dismissal, messages of support have been pouring in. Many figures in Senegalese football have praised the work done by the man who took charge of the national team during a challenging time. Despite a disappointing end to his tenure marked by Senegal’s elimination from the 2026 World Cup and various controversies surrounding the Senegalese Football Federation, many believe Pape Thiaw always served his country with commitment and sincerity.
Among the most notable reactions is that of Idrissa Gana Gueye. The midfielder didn’t release a long statement or seek to fuel the debates around his coach’s departure. He simply chose a few words, filled with faith and gratitude, to pay tribute. This message quickly spread on social media and was widely praised by Lions supporters.
The player wrote:
“La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah. Thank you Pape Thiaw from the bottom of my heart.”
This statement, though very brief, is rich in meaning. The phrase “La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah,” commonly used in Muslim tradition, expresses trust in God in the face of trials and reminds us that all strength and power come from Him. By linking this phrase to a thank you for Pape Thiaw, Gana Gueye aimed to convey a message that is spiritual, human, and deeply respectful.
The midfielder’s gesture also shows the esteem players had for their coach. During his time on the Lions’ bench, Pape Thiaw was often seen as a coach close to his group, attentive to his players’ needs and concerned about maintaining a good atmosphere within the team. While the sporting results were sometimes debated, his human qualities were rarely questioned by those who worked alongside him.
🚨🇸🇳 Gana Gueye publicly thanks Pape Thiaw after his departure from the national team:
"La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah. Thank you Pape Thiaw from the bottom of my heart."
📲 Instagram pic.twitter.com/csNQcGnsUn
— Joueurs SN 🇸🇳 (@JoueursSN) July 12, 2026
In a context marked by many questions about the management of the national team, Idrissa Gana Gueye’s message takes on special significance. Without commenting on the Federation’s decisions or entering into the controversy, the player chose to highlight his gratitude and respect for a man who dedicated part of his career to Senegalese football. This attitude reflects the values of solidarity and loyalty often emphasized within the Lions of Teranga.
As the Senegalese Football Federation prepares to open a new chapter with the appointment of a future coach, tributes continue to pour in for Pape Thiaw. Gana Gueye’s message will likely remain one of the most symbolic of this period. In just a few words, the midfielder summed up the feelings of many players and supporters: gratitude, respect, and sincere thanks to a coach who, despite the challenges faced, left a mark during his time at the helm of the national team.
