Herve Renard Returns as Côte d'Ivoire Coach

Herve Renard has returned to the Côte d'Ivoire head coach position for a second time, following the departure of Emerse Fae. The 57-year-old Frenchman previously led the Elephants to their second Africa Cup of Nations title in 2015 before leaving for Lille later that year.

Renard's recent career has been eventful. He managed Saudi Arabia, guiding the nation to qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, but was dismissed less than two months before the tournament. He then took over Tunisia during the finals, replacing Sabri Lamouchi after their opening loss to Sweden, but could not prevent further defeats to Japan and the Netherlands.

Federation Statement

The Ivorian Football Federation announced the appointment in a statement, saying: "This appointment reflects the Federation's desire to consolidate the achievements of the senior national team in recent years, while pursuing the ambitions set for Ivorian football on both the African and international stages."

"An African champion with Côte d'Ivoire in 2015, Mr Herve Renard returns to lead the Elephants with the mission of guiding the national team through preparations for and participation in upcoming international competitions. Drawing on his experience in elite football, his knowledge of the African game, and his attachment to Ivorian football, he will be responsible for maintaining the senior national team's performance momentum, working in close collaboration with the Federation's governing bodies and technical structures."

Coaching Career

Renard has had a well-travelled and successful coaching career. He had spells in France, China, Vietnam, and England before stepping into international football with Zambia, whom he led to a maiden AFCON title in 2012. Three years later, he became the first coach to win the continental title with two nations after guiding Côte d'Ivoire to a final triumph over Ghana.

He has also coached Angola, Morocco, and the France women's national team.

Upcoming Challenges

Renard's first task will be to qualify Côte d'Ivoire for the 2027 AFCON, which will be held across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda from June to July. After that, attention will turn to the qualifying campaign for the FIFA World Cup 2030™.