“I’m ready for a new challenge in Africa, Europe or Asia” – former Burkina Faso coach Paulo Duarte

Portuguese coach Paulo Duarte has indicated his readiness to take up a new challenge in his coaching career. The experienced manager most recently had stints with the Togo senior national team and Saudi club Al-Kholood.

The former Burkina Faso manager was dismissed by Al Kholood after just seven league games and is now without a club. Duarte spent nearly three years with Togo from 2021 to 2024 before joining Al Kholood.

The 55-year-old is keeping his options open across Africa, Europe, and Asia.

“For almost four months, I have been at home enjoying my family. I am a free coach and I remain open to new opportunities whether in Africa, Europe, or Asia,” Duarte told Burkinabe outlet Sidwaya.

Regarding a potential move back to Burkina Faso, Duarte acknowledged his interest: “I have been decorated twice. I am a national law officer. I want the third decoration that will make me Commander. To get it, I have to return to do something special like at the beginning of my career here with a World Cup qualification or win an AFCON. I miss doing this. I stand by and plan on coming back for it.”

Duarte’s coaching career has seen him manage teams in various countries, including Togo and Saudi Arabia. Duarte led Burkina Faso’s Stallions to a historic AFCON final in 2013 and it appears he could be a viable options if the West African nation continues to show underwhelming form when 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying resumes in March.