June 26, 2018
In World Cup terms, Senegal’s manager Aliou Cissé is undoubtedly attractive and some women would argue he’s just as gorgeous off the pitch. Either way, standing tall in his Puma blazer, he’s not to be overlooked. His well-groomed, manicured appearance rivals that of Cristiano but it was his jubilant celebrations of his team’s success that quickly gave him meme status.
See the GIF that gave him the name here: https://i.imgur.com/um1SYf8.mp4
Dubbed ‘the coolest man at the World Cup’, his winning demeanour and attractiveness has made him a fan favourite. So, we thought you might appreciate a primer on all things Aliou.
Background
Cissé is from Ziguinchor, Senegal’s second largest city. He was born 24th March 1976. He made his debut in 1994 at Lille in the French Ligue 1. As a defensive midfielder, he was known for stacking up yellow cards. But he is an Aries, and they’re notorious for their fiery personalities. So we’ll allow it.
Oh Captain, My Captain
Cissé captained Senegal in its first World Cup in 2002 in South Korea and Japan. In a shocking upset, he led his team to victory against defending champions and former colonial masters France. He even managed to pick up a yellow card along the way. They reached the quarter finals before being eliminated after a 0–1 loss to Turkey. To be fair, that is extraordinary given no one expected them to get out of the group stage.
Mr. Manager
Cissé has been Senegal’s manager for three years. He also managed the team’s U-23 side from 2012-2015. It’s clear he shares a close relationship with his players. Cissé has classed Senegal’s victory as one for all of Africa and that he hopes to recapture the spirit of their 2002 World Cup campaign. He is the only Black manager at Russia 2018 and the lowest paid of all 32, with a salary of £174,500. But his charismatic relationship with his team and so-far so-good track record have highlighted the need for more indigenous coaches in the sport.
