The Libyan Football Federation is facing mounting criticism after it emerged that national team head coach Aliou Cissé has not received his salary for eight months.
Cissé, who previously managed Senegal national football team, was appointed head coach of the Libya national football team in March 2025 on a two-year contract with an option for a third year. The former Senegal international was tasked with rebuilding Libya’s squad and preparing the team for upcoming international competitions.
However, reports indicate that the Libyan Football Federation has been unable to meet its financial obligations to the coach and his technical staff. According to several sources cited by African football media, the federation has delayed payments for eight months due to financial constraints.
Sources told Foot Africa newspaper that Federation president Abdulmola Al-Maghribi acknowledged the problem, saying the organisation is currently experiencing financial difficulties. The sources added that he confirmed that the salaries of the national team coach, his assistants and the technical staff have been postponed during this period.
Despite the ongoing financial uncertainty, Cissé is expected to continue preparing the Libyan national team for the qualification campaign for the Africa Cup of Nations scheduled for 2027. The tournament remains a key objective for the team as Libya seeks to return to major continental competition after years of inconsistent performances.
Football observers say the situation highlights broader structural and financial challenges within Libyan football institutions. Delays in payments to coaching staff can affect team preparation, morale and long-term planning, particularly as the national side aims to strengthen its competitiveness in African football.
Cissé is widely respected for his achievements with Senegal, including leading the team to continental success and World Cup qualification. His appointment in Libya had been viewed as a significant step toward improving the national team’s international standing.
The Libyan Football Federation has not announced a specific timeline for resolving the salary issue.
