Hervé Renard, the acclaimed French football manager, is setting his sights on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, signaling a potential shift to coaching a men’s national team after his tenure with the French women’s team concludes. Renard’s aspirations have drawn attention to the intense competition within African coaching circles, with his eyes possibly set on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco as a testing ground for potential candidates, including Emerse Faé.
During a recent press conference, Renard, currently under contract with the French women’s team until August 2024, revealed his intentions to explore coaching a men’s national team for the upcoming World Cup.
He disclosed discussions with the French Football Federation (FFF) earlier this year, outlining his future ambitions following his tenure with the women’s team, where he succeeded Corinne Diacre.
Renard emphasized that his desire to lead a men’s national team at the 2026 World Cup was a personal goal, potentially marking his third participation as coach, possibly with a different country.
Reflecting on his successful stint with Ivory Coast, Renard shared insights into his footballing journey and future plans.
“I communicated my intentions to the FFF last January. However, this did not dampen my motivation, as we have since reached a Nations League final,” Renard affirmed, highlighting his commitment to women’s football and his satisfaction with the progress achieved.
Philippe Diallo, president of the FFF, confirmed Renard’s departure at the end of the summer, stating, “Hervé has a contract which ends after the Olympics at the end of August 2024, and he has suggested that he is not at all sure whether he will stay afterwards.”
Renard’s decision paves the way for new opportunities, with his departure leaving a void that opens up possibilities for both the French women’s team and potential future roles in men’s football coaching.
As Renard’s coaching journey continues to unfold, his potential move to a men’s national team for the 2026 World Cup adds an intriguing dimension to the football landscape, setting the stage for an exciting chapter in his storied career.
