Renard Takes Helm Of Tunisia After Lamouchi’s World Cup Exit

Tunisia have appointed experienced coach Hervé Renard to guide them through the remainder of their World Cup campaign, according to sources.

The decision follows the dismissal of Sabri Lamouchi, who led Tunisia in their preparations and opening match against Sweden. Lamouchi’s departure comes amidst reports of dressing room unrest.

ESPN reports that, the 57-year-old Renard is expected to arrive in Mexico, where the Tunisian squad is based, on Tuesday afternoon and will oversee his first training session in Monterrey on Tuesday evening.

Tunisia officially confirmed Lamouchi’s exit late on Monday.

This marks Renard’s third World Cup with a different nation. He previously managed Morocco in 2018, securing one draw and two losses before a group-stage exit.

In 2022, he famously led Saudi Arabia to a victory over Argentina and Lionel Messi in their opening match, though they ultimately failed to progress from the group.

This is the first instance in World Cup history of a team sacking their head coach after just one game in the tournament. Lamouchi, 54, is understood to have paid the price for Sunday’s humiliating 5-1 defeat against Sweden, as well as ongoing tensions with both the Federation and certain players since his appointment.

Wahbi Khazri, the former Ligue 1 and Tunisia international midfielder who served as Lamouchi’s assistant, will remain with the team under Renard.