Tunis – The Tunisian Football Federation announced this morning, Thursday, June 18, 2026, the appointment of renowned French coach Hervé Renard as head coach of the Tunisian national team, succeeding Sabri Lamouchi. Renard will lead the “Eagles of Carthage” for the remainder of their 2026 World Cup campaign.
New coaching staff composition
The university revealed the coaching staff that will accompany Renard on his mission, which includes Frédéric Biancalani as assistant coach and Gilles Fouache as goalkeeping coach.
The physical conditioning department has been strengthened with the addition of David Barriac, assisted by Anas Kazouz. Furthermore, the technical and performance analysis department includes prominent figures such as Wahbi Khazri, Alexandre Kervayan, Helmi Kechou, and Anis Ben M’Blik.
Renard’s message to the players: Turn the page on Sweden.
In his first meeting with the players, Hervé Renard delivered a firm and direct message, urging them to immediately put the heavy defeat against Sweden behind them.
Renard emphasized that the performance in the opening match did not reflect the team’s true potential. He also stressed the need to “fight on the pitch” to defend the national flag and reconcile with the Tunisian fans, especially those who had traveled specifically to Mexico to support the team in this global tournament.
Engineering change and the “match of a thousand” gamble
For his part, Naji Al-Shahed, head of the national teams committee, explained that the contract with Renard was the result of a technical vision developed by the university’s vice president, Hussein Jneih. This came after an in-depth analysis of the disappointing performance in the first round, which created a consensus within the university’s board on the need for immediate change. This was done to salvage what could be salvaged.
The Tunisian national team is looking to begin a new era under Hervé Renard when they face Japan next Sunday, June 21, at 4:00 PM GMT (5:00 AM Tunisian time).
This match holds historical significance as it will be the 1000th match in the history of the World Cup finals. The Tunisians hope this game will be the turning point that puts the “Eagles of Carthage” back on track in Group F. They are counting on the French coach’s extensive experience in African and international football to deliver a positive shock. This shock could help restore balance to the team at this crucial stage of the World Cup.
