Officials within the Mali Football Federation (FEMAFOOT) are reportedly unhappy with coach Florent Ibenge after he declined the opportunity to become the country’s new national team manager, citing family reasons.
According to reports, Ibenge had progressed through the federation’s recruitment process and emerged as the preferred candidate for the position. Discussions between both parties had reached an advanced stage before the experienced coach informed FEMAFOOT that he would be unable to take up the role due to personal and family commitments.
The decision has reportedly left several federation leaders frustrated, with some questioning why the family concerns were not raised earlier in the selection process. Officials believe that valuable time was lost as they focused their efforts on securing Ibenge’s appointment, delaying potential negotiations with other candidates.
Sources indicate that FEMAFOOT had invested significant time and resources into the recruitment exercise, viewing Ibenge as the leading choice to guide the Eagles of Mali into the next phase of their development. His withdrawal at a late stage has now forced the federation back to the drawing board in its search for a new head coach.
While the federation is understood to respect the coach’s personal circumstances, there is a feeling among some officials that greater clarity earlier in the process would have allowed Mali to pursue alternative options sooner.
The setback comes at a crucial time for Mali as the federation seeks stability and leadership ahead of upcoming international assignments, with the hunt for a new national team coach now expected to intensify in the coming weeks.