The Libyan national team could soon turn a new page in its history with the likely arrival of Youssoupha Dabo as the head coach of the Mediterranean Knights. Following the departure of Aliou Cissé, who was recently appointed to lead the Angolan national team, Libyan officials have decided to once again bet on a Senegalese coach to continue the work started in recent months.
According to information reported by the Portuguese daily Record, discussions between the Libyan Football Federation and Youssoupha Dabo are well advanced. The two sides are close to a final agreement, with just a few administrative details left to finalize before a possible official announcement.
The choice of the Senegalese coach is no coincidence. Youssoupha Dabo is already well-acquainted with the Libyan national team environment, having been part of Aliou Cissé’s staff as an assistant coach. This collaboration allowed him to familiarize himself with the squad, the working methods, and the goals set by Libyan football officials.
This experience could be a significant advantage in a context where the Federation wants to maintain some stability. After Aliou Cissé’s departure, officials preferred a solution that would ensure a smooth transition rather than starting a completely new project.
Youssoupha Dabo also has solid experience on African benches. Before joining the Libyan national team staff, he managed several clubs in Senegal and built a reputation as a coach capable of developing young players and creating competitive teams.
His journey has taken him through various environments in African football, where he gained a deep understanding of the continent’s realities. His ability to support players, instill collective discipline, and propose suitable tactical organization could be a major asset for a Libyan team seeking progress.
If the agreement is confirmed, Youssoupha Dabo would become the second consecutive Senegalese coach to lead the Mediterranean Knights. This situation highlights the growing confidence placed in Senegalese coaches on the African stage.
Libya: Youssoupha Dabo in pole position to succeed Aliou Cissé as head coach of the Mediterranean Knights https://t.co/jmrJ0LRTDY pic.twitter.com/206OH3zHZt
— wiwsport (@wiwsport) July 9, 2026
This potential appointment comes at an important time for Libya, which is looking to regain a more significant place in continental football. The Federation hopes that the continuity brought by a member of the former staff will help build on the foundations laid under Aliou Cissé and achieve better results in upcoming international competitions.
For Youssoupha Dabo, this opportunity would represent a major new challenge in his career. Becoming the national team coach would give him the chance to showcase his managerial skills and confirm the rise of Senegalese coaches, who are increasingly sought after by African national teams.
