Hervé Renard has revealed he was interested in coaching Senegal after their Africa Cup of Nations exit, but said the move ultimately collapsed because “all the conditions weren’t right”.
The French coach was among the names considered by the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) after the Lions’ elimination in the round of 16 of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and the subsequent departure of long-time manager Aliou Cissé.
Renard, who had recently left his role with the French women’s national team, was available at the time discussions began.
Despite reported mutual interest, the appointment never materialised. The FSF instead turned to Pape Thiaw, a decision that would later be validated on the pitch when he guided Senegal to a second continental crown, secured on 18 January in Rabat.
That outcome closed the chapter on what might have been a high-profile return to African international football for Renard.
Speaking to Jeune Afrique during the release of his book Me, Football, Africa, the 56-year-old reflected on the talks and why they did not progress.
“In Senegal, all the conditions weren’t right, but I wanted to take on this challenge,” he said, describing a situation where interest existed on both sides but practical factors prevented an agreement.
Renard also underlined his personal connection to Senegal, noting ties that extend beyond football.
While those links added a layer of meaning to the discussions, they were not enough to bridge the gaps that ultimately halted negotiations.
Now in charge of Saudi Arabia, Renard said his bond with African football remains strong and left open the possibility of returning to the continent in the future.
“If a well-organized federation offers me a good sporting project, I could be interested.
The financial aspect is not the primary criterion; it never has been for me. I feel good in Africa, and I will return one day,” he asserted.
His comments offer insight into a near appointment that could have reshaped Senegal’s technical direction, while reinforcing his long-standing association with African football and the projects that continue to attract him.
