Exclusive interview – Paulo Duarte: "Guinea on the right track, Senegal capable of going far at the World Cup"

Are there any new dual-nationality talents set to join Guinea for the 2027 AFCON qualifiers?

Yes, absolutely. There are dual-nationality players, but not as many as we’d like. We have five or six top-level players who have already played at the highest level, but so far, they haven’t responded positively and have declined invitations to play for Guinea.This is a real issue for us because if we could convince just seven players, Guinea would have a fantastic team. But you can’t force anyone to represent Guinea.There are also other young players, perhaps less experienced in the short term, but who have quality and, above all, the desire to play for the country. For me, that’s the most important thing: having players ready to give everything for the flag.

Why has the Guinean national team struggled to achieve good results despite an enormous talent pool?

Honestly, I think it’s a country with too much talent, especially in Europe. There are players everywhere, but over the years, the team has operated in a certain disorganization and lack of discipline.Everyone did a bit as they pleased—that’s my analysis. In my eight or nine months here, I’ve noticed that some players were using the national team rather than serving it. They came when it suited them, played when they wanted. I think that’s the main reason Guinea hasn’t progressed.Now, it’s time to say enough is enough. It’s time for change, and that moment has come. Renewing a team takes work, and results don’t always come immediately. Bringing in new players, rebuilding a group, instilling a new dynamic and tactical organization—these things usually take at least one or two years.But fortunately, results are starting to show. We’ve refreshed the squad with quality. Out of eight games, we lost only the last one. For us, a new phase is beginning.However, standards will remain high, as will professionalism. Any player wanting to represent Guinea must understand there are rules and discipline. The player doesn’t make the team, nor does he decide when he shows up or not.The priority is Guinea. First Guinea, then Guinea, and always Guinea above all else.

Portuguese football will be in the spotlight in the CAF Champions League final, with Miguel Cardoso and Alexandre Santos on the benches of Mamelodi Sundowns and AS FAR. Is this further proof that the Portuguese school is best suited to African football?

No, it’s not just about the connection between Portugal and Africa, but above all about the quality of the coaches.Portuguese coaches have evolved a lot over the years, thanks especially to the influence of major figures like José Mourinho, who paved the way for a whole generation. For me, he’s been one of the main architects of this progress.They’ve brought new ideas, greater visibility to the game, and modern training methods. They have also helped define what today’s football is all about: organization, high standards, and professionalism.Today, Portuguese coaches are recognized for their adaptability, tactical rigor, and understanding of modern football. These are highly sought-after qualities, especially in Africa.Miguel Cardoso is a perfect example. After a career that wasn’t always straightforward, he has managed to make a name for himself on the African continent. I’m very happy for him, as he represents Portuguese coaches with honor.Reaching a third consecutive final is a massive achievement. I hope this time he’ll manage to bring the trophy home with his club.

Who is your favorite for the CAF Champions League?

Sundowns, with all their experience, will face AS FAR, who have had an exceptional run. That’s the strength of the "Militaires"—they’ll approach this opportunity as if it’s the last of their lives.It won’t be easy for the "Brazilians," even with more experience and a high-quality squad. But I think AS FAR will have their say in this African competition.

Which African team has the best chance of going far in the World Cup?

I think, right now, the team with the best chance at the World Cup is Senegal.I’ll say Senegal—and why? Because today, I have to congratulate their coach. We’re seeing a completely different Senegal from a year or a year and a half ago. It’s a team that controls the game, presses high, plays on the front foot, and doesn’t let the opponent play.Before, I’d faced Senegal five or six times and lost only once. Back then, it was a team that let you play, then, thanks to their talent and quality, could settle matches in a few minutes.Now, it’s the opposite. This is a Senegal that works together, with and without the ball, plays well, and suffocates its opponents. The pressing is modern, the standards are extremely high. Today, I see a Senegal doing all of that. A year and a half ago, that wasn’t the case.So for me, today, Senegal is a massive force, a real powerhouse, and I believe they can go very far.Morocco is also a great team, with huge potential. Even though they didn’t show their best football at the last AFCON—I expected more from them—they’re still a side capable of springing surprises.