Former Nigeria’s Senior team coach Gernot Rohr has stated that he has met with Mali officials to discuss the vacant managerial position.
Following the team’s round of 16 exit at this year’s Africa Cup of Nations and March’s 2022 World Cup play-off defeat, Mali’s football federation (Femafoot) is attempting to fill the vacuum left by Mohamed Magassouba’s dismissal.
Rohr’s performance across the continent has impressed Femafoot’s hierarchy, particularly as coach of Nigeria, from whom he is seeking $1 million in compensation for unfair dismissal.
“The conversation with Mali has been very professional and respectful.
“It takes some days but nothing has been finalised. Mali has a young team with potential so it is very interesting,” Rohr told reporters.
The 68-year-old is still on Mali’s short list of possible replacements for Magassouba, but he isn’t the only one being considered.
The Femafoot board is also interested in former international Eric Sekou Chelle, 44, and ex-Cameroon coach Winfried Schafer, 72, who led the Indomitable Lions to the 2002 Nations Cup title.
After retiring in 2014, former Lens defender Chelle began his coaching career with Marseille Consolat, followed by managerial stints in the third and fourth tiers of French football with Martigues and Boulogne.
German Schafer led Cameroon to continental success in 2002 and a runner-up position in the 2003 Fifa Confederations Cup. He has four decades of managing experience across four continents.
German Schafer led Cameroon to continental success in 2002 and a runner-up position in the 2003 Fifa Confederations Cup. He has four decades of managing experience across four continents.
Mali is eager to wrap up talks and choose a new coach as soon as possible, with qualifications for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations set to begin in the international window on May 30.
The Eagles, who finished second in the 1972 tournament, will play Congo, South Sudan, and The Gambia in Group G.
The West Africans have also confirmed a friendly against Ecuador, which will take place on June 11 at the Pratt & Whitney Stadium in Hartford, Connecticut.