Sebastien Desabre
Sebastien Desabre is a French coach who has built his entire career in African football, making him one of the continent's most experienced European managers. He guided Uganda to the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations — their first qualification in 41 years — which remains his most significant achievement and established his reputation. Spells at Wydad Casablanca, Pyramids, and Ismaily gave him deep familiarity with North African football before a brief return to France with Niort. Since taking charge of Congo DR in 2023, he has worked to organise a squad with genuine individual talent into a cohesive unit capable of competing at a first World Cup.
Valence, France · 1976-08-02
Profile
Sebastien Desabre is a French coach who previously managed Uganda, guiding them to the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations — their first in 41 years. He returned to Congo DR for a second spell and favours a compact, transition-oriented 4-3-3 that relies on quick vertical passes to release forwards in behind. His experience navigating African qualification campaigns gives him credibility, though his record in knockout football remains modest.
Career
Congo DR2023 – present
Niort2020 – 2022
Wydad Casablanca2020
Pyramids2019
Uganda2017 – 2019
Ismaily2017Wydad Casablanca2016 – 2017
Saoura2016
ES Tunis2014ES Tunis2013 – 2014
Cotonsport2013
ASEC Mimosas2010 – 2012Team identity
Desabre typically deploys a 4-3-3, with Masuaku pushing high from left-back to create overloads. Ngal'ayel Mukau and Charles Pickel provide energy and ball-winning in central midfield, while Gaël Kakuta or Nathanaël Mbuku operate as the more creative link. The team presses aggressively in the middle third and looks to transition rapidly, feeding Wissa and Bakambu on the counter.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Congo DR's manager at the 2026 World Cup?
Sebastien Desabre is the head coach of Congo DR at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
What is Sebastien Desabre's background?
Sebastien Desabre is a French coach who has built his entire career in African football, making him one of the continent's most experienced European managers. He guided Uganda to the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations — their first qualification in…