Veteran French Coach Claude Le Roy Back with Republic of Congo
Veteran French tactician Claude Le Roy returns to coaching with Congo for two years. First task: qualify for 2027 AFCON in East Africa alongside Cameroon, Comoros, Namibia.
Claude Le Roy appointed Congo Manager, eyes 2027 AFCON in East Africa...
Claude Le Roy is officially back in the dugout. The veteran French coach has been named Republic of Congo head coach for the next two years, taking charge for the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
FECOFOOT confirmed the appointment in a statement. It marks Le Roy’s return to coaching after his last spell with Togo’s national team back in 2021.
“The meeting room of the Ministry of Sports hosted... the official ceremony for the signing of Claude Le Roy’s contract as expert sports consultant and national coach of the Red Devils,” the Congolese Football Federation wrote on its social media accounts.
The statement added: “As announced in recent weeks, Claude Le Roy officially took the helm of the Congo national team - the Red Devils.
“His return to lead the Congolese squad marks the start of a new chapter for a national football program seeking stability and credibility.”
Le Roy Returns for Crucial Congo Rebuild Mission
“Known for his rigor, experience, and deep attachment to the Congo, the French coach arrived determined to bring order to an environment that has faced considerable turbulence in recent years.”
On top of coaching the national team, Claude Le Roy will also serve as a consultant and technical expert for Congo’s football authorities.
The statement added: “The experience he has amassed over decades across the African continent will be instrumental in guiding necessary reforms, improving overall organisation, and strengthening the foundations for the development of the national game.
“His expert perspective will prove invaluable in shaping the strategic decisions that will determine the future of the Red Devils.”
The statement continued: “The signed contract runs for two years, though Le Roy reportedly plans to personally oversee the role for about a year and a half before gradually handing the reins to his assistant, Omar Daf - the man tapped to carry on the work he has initiated.
“This transition strategy aims to ensure technical continuity while leveraging the former head coach's experience and expertise.”
After signing the deal, Le Roy stressed the need for better structure across the board. He said he’ll push for discipline, professionalism, accountability, and a long-term plan as core principles.
Le Roy’s first job is clear: get Congo to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations in East Africa. They’ve been drawn in a tough group with Cameroon, Comoros, and Namibia.
The 78-year-old made his name on the continent leading Cameroon and Ghana. He won the 1988 Africa Cup of Nations with Cameroon, cementing his reputation.
That Cameroon run is what he’s remembered for most - taking the Indomitable Lions to the final in 1986, then lifting the trophy two years later in 1988.
He later managed Senegal to the quarterfinals of the 1992 AFCON, then returned to Cameroon for the 1998 World Cup. Between those jobs he also had a spell with Malaysia’s national team from 1994 to 1995.
🇨🇬 Claude Le Roy is back in Congo.
— Africa Soccer Zone (@AfricaSoccer_zn) June 22, 2026
The veteran French coach has signed as Republic of Congo head coach, returning for a second spell in charge. Former Senegal international Omar Daf will be his assistant. pic.twitter.com/UTkOL6Ne6k
In February 2008, Le Roy guided Ghana to 14th in the FIFA World Rankings - still their highest ranking ever. He stepped down from the Black Stars role just three months later in May 2008.
Le Roy took over Congo again in 2015 and stayed until 2018. He quit after guiding the Red Devils through World Cup qualifying but before the main tournament.
His most recent job was with Togo, where he replaced Tom Saintfiet. He left on April 12, 2021 after missing out on AFCON qualification with the Sparrow Hawks.
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