Herve Renard resigns as Tunisia manager after just 18 days at World Cup
Herve Renard has resigned as Tunisia head coach just 18 days after taking charge during the 2026 World Cup following their group-stage exit.
The North African nation crashed out of Group F with three consecutive defeats and a dismal goal difference of minus 10.
They conceded 12 times across their fixtures, marking the second-highest tally shipped by any side in the history of the competition.
Renard was dramatically drafted in mid-tournament after the Tunisian Football Federation sacked previous boss Sabri Lamouchi following an opening 5-1 defeat to Sweden.
A turbulent campaign for the Eagles of Carthage
The 57-year-old tactician oversaw a 4-0 drubbing by Japan before concluding the campaign with a 3-1 loss to the Netherlands.
That final fixture began disastrously when midfielder Ellyes Skhiri scored the second-fastest own goal in tournament history.
The former Saudi Arabia boss has now walked away from the chaotic environment, calling an end to his remarkably brief tenure.
‘An honour to wear Tunisia’s colours’
In a statement confirming his departure, the two-time Africa Cup of Nations winner expressed gratitude for the fleeting opportunity.
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.
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.
Mid-camp upheaval proves costly
The veteran French manager had been the leading candidate to stabilise the squad given his extensive international pedigree.
He previously orchestrated Saudi Arabia’s famous victory over eventual champions Argentina at Qatar 2022 and steered the French women’s national team to a World Cup quarter-final in 2023.
However, the unprecedented disruption of changing management mid-tournament took a heavy toll on the playing squad.
Norwich City midfielder Anis Ben Slimane highlighted the severe difficulties faced by the players during the failed campaign.
It has not been easy. In the middle of the camp, there was a lot of trouble, and then a new manager came in during the tournament.