Tunisia have turned to a familiar European-based figure as they begin a new cycle, appointing former Nottingham Forest manager Sabri Lamouchi as head coach in the wake of their Africa Cup of Nations setback.
The Tunisian Football Federation confirmed the 54-year-old’s appointment on Wednesday, signalling a clear shift toward stability and long-term planning ahead of the next major international tournaments.
Lamouchi replaces Sami Trabelsi, who departed following Tunisia’s round-of-16 exit at the AFCON in Morocco, a result that fell short of expectations for a side that has consistently qualified for major competitions.
The federation confirmed that Lamouchi has been handed a contract running until July 31, 2028, underlining confidence in his ability to guide the national team through the coming years.
“The Tunisian football federation has announced that it has signed coach Sabri Lamouchi to take charge of the national team until July 31, 2028,” the federation said in an official statement.
Born in Lyon to Tunisian parents, Lamouchi brings a blend of European coaching experience and cultural familiarity with Tunisian football. He has previously worked in England’s Championship with Nottingham Forest and Cardiff City, and also managed Ligue 1 side Stade Rennais.
On the international stage, he is no stranger to African football, having previously coached Ivory Coast.
Lamouchi inherits a squad that has already secured qualification for this year’s FIFA World Cup, easing immediate pressure while raising expectations for progress.
Tunisia have been drawn in Group F alongside the Netherlands, Japan and a European playoff winner, a challenging section that will demand tactical discipline and mental resilience.
His immediate task will be to steady the team after AFCON disappointment, while gradually imprinting his philosophy on a group expected to compete with greater consistency on the global stage.
