The journey has come to an end for Tom Saintfiet. The Malian Football Federation (Femafoot) formally dismissed the Belgian tactician from his role as head coach of the national team on Tuesday evening. The 53-year-old manager, who took charge in August 2024, saw his tenure cut short after failing to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup finals and suffering a quarter-final exit at the hands of Sénégal during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Recognition from Femafoot
Mahazou Cisset, the recently appointed president of Femafoot, expressed his gratitude toward Tom Saintfiet in an official statement shared via the federation’s social media channels: “Throughout your time with us, you demonstrated unwavering commitment, exemplary professionalism, and remarkable resolve in fulfilling your duties. Despite a demanding environment, you successfully maintained squad unity, organized technical operations, and represented the colors of the Mali Aigles with dignity.”
A search for a successor has already begun, with the federation launching a formal call for applications. Interested candidates have until May 10 to submit their files for consideration.
