Faouzi Benzarti underfire after excluding Algerian player from Club Africaine starting eleven during Ramadan

Tunisian coach Faouzi Benzarti has once again found himself at the centre of controversy, this time over the exclusion of Algerian midfielder Tawfiq Al-Sharifi from Club Africain’s starting lineup during Ramadan.

Fans were surprised by Al-Sharifi’s absence in the club’s latest Tunisian league fixture, given that the 24-year-old is often relied upon in the second half of matches.

Tunisian media reported that the decision was linked to Al-Sharifi’s insistence on observing fasting during the holy month, a practice that clashes with Benzarti’s strict approach to match readiness.

While Benzarti does not force players to break their fast, he maintains a clear policy that those who are fasting should not feature in the starting eleven or official matchday squad.

Sources close to the coach told WINWIN that this policy is rooted in his concern for full physical performance during matches.

Al-Sharifi has made seven appearances for Club Africain this season and, since joining four years ago, has played 65 matches across all competitions.

A former Algerian Under-23 international, he brings both technical skill and experience at the continental level.

Club Africain is targeting its first Tunisian Ligue Professionnelle 1 title since 2015, making every selection decision significant.

The situation highlights the ongoing debate in sports circles over balancing tactical discipline, competitive performance, and players’ personal convictions in a high-stakes environment.