Herve Renard has abruptly quit as Tunisia manager just 18 days after being appointed during the World Cup.
Renard, 57, swooped in to take over after Sabri Lamouchi was sacked after the team’s 5-1 defeat by Sweden in their first group game.
But the Frenchman was unable to stop the rot and Tunisia lost 4-0 against Japan and 3-1 against the Netherlands to round off a dreadful campaign.
Renard has now released a statement, reading: ‘Before leaving, I would like to express my sincere thanks to the FTF for allowing me to participate in the 2026 World Cup.
‘It was an honour to wear Tunisia’s colours and to live this unforgettable experience.
‘I wish this Tunisian team the best for the future. I am convinced that it will continue to grow, to thrill an entire nation, and to write brilliant chapters in its history.
Herve Renard has stepped down as Tunisia boss just 18 days after being appointed
‘Thank you to everyone who accompanied me throughout this journey.
‘I wish you great success in the future. My journey is coming to an end.’
Lamouchi’s tenure after the Sweden demolition ended with a whiff of scandal.
Reports suggested that a fight broke out at the Tunisia team hotel following the defeat, with a witness telling a local radio station that Lamouchi’s son and a supporter had been at the centre of the scuffle.
Lamouchi however played down such reports, telling journalists in his final press conference: ‘As a father I’ll answer you first, and it’s also the coach who’ll answer you.
‘I’m sure there are family connections here, but my son plays no part in the selection process. When I say there were five players there, he’s there, he’s working on his thesis, he has no official role, he’s no longer on the pitch. And right now, as we speak, he’s not here; he’s feeling awkward.’
Renard was regarded as a safe choice for Tunisia having already managed twice at a World Cup before with both Morocco and Saudi Arabia.
He famously led the Saudis to victory over eventual winners Argentina at the 2022 tournament in Qatar.
In 2023, he moved across to the women’s game and helped France to the quarter-finals.
Renard’s long international career also saw him manage Zambia and Ivory Coast, winning the Africa Cup of Nations with each side in 2012 and 2015 respectively.
Long before that, he enjoyed a short stint in charge of Cambridge United 22 years ago.
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