Renard leaves Tunisia after two defeats and eyes Senegal

Hervé Renard officially announced his departure from the Tunisian national team on Saturday, ending a spell as brief as it was disappointing at the 2026 World Cup. The 57-year-old French coach managed just two matches, both of which were lost.

Arriving as an emergency replacement mid-tournament to fill in for Sabri Lamouchi — sacked after a heavy 1-5 defeat to Sweden — Renard failed to turn things around. Tunisia collapsed against Japan (0-4) and then the Netherlands (1-3), concluding their World Cup with three defeats in three matches.

In a farewell message published on Saturday, Renard thanked the Tunisian federation. « Before I leave, I want to express my sincere thanks to the Federation 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, » he wrote. He also wished the team well: « I am convinced that it will continue to grow, to thrill an entire nation and to write beautiful chapters in its history. My adventure comes to an end. »

Days earlier, Renard had cast doubt on his future by declaring himself « now free to choose the best project for the future, » without explicitly ruling out an extension with the Eagles of Carthage. The choice is now made.

His next challenge could emerge quickly: Renard’s name is now being mentioned to take over from Pape Thiaw as head of the Senegal national team.