A significant internal crisis has emerged within the Senegal national football team ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Reports from TyC Sports indicate that the squad is facing multiple challenges, including unpaid wages and unsatisfactory living conditions.
The root of the players’ grievances primarily stems from the failure to receive promised bonuses. As of now, the footballers have not been compensated for their appearance fees for the World Cup, nor have they received bonuses related to the Africa Cup of Nations, where their initial victory against Morocco was later nullified by an appeals committee decision.
Concerns regarding team organization have also been voiced. Players have expressed their dissatisfaction with their accommodations, labeling the hotel as inadequate for a tournament of such significance. Moreover, they criticized the quality of food provided, which they feel does not meet professional sports standards. Some players have reportedly resorted to ordering food from outside the hotel to fulfill their dietary requirements.
Compounding these issues is the situation surrounding head coach Pape Thiaw. Sources reveal that Thiaw has not received his salary for the past five months and continues to manage the national team without an active contract, leading to further legal and organizational complications.