Algerian coach Adel Amrouche has been appointed as the new head coach of Rwanda’s national team, marking his return to the sidelines following his legal battle with the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
His appointment comes months after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) overturned his suspension and fine, clearing the way for his return to management.
From AFCON controversy to legal victory
Amrouche’s last coaching role ended in controversy during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) when he was leading Tanzania.
In January 2024, he made critical remarks about Morocco’s influence in African football, alleging the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) held excessive power within CAF.
His statements led to an eight-match suspension and a $10,000 fine, forcing Tanzania to part ways with him mid-tournament.
Unwilling to accept the sanctions, Amrouche took the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne, Switzerland, which ultimately ruled in his favor.
The CAS annulled CAF’s decision and ordered the governing body to compensate the coach, effectively clearing his name.
A fresh start in Rwanda
Now, Amrouche embarks on a new challenge with Rwanda, having signed a two-year contract with the country’s football federation.
His primary objective will be to rebuild the national team and secure qualification for the next AFCON.
Amrouche will not be alone in this mission—he will work alongside Eric Nshimiyimana and Calorin Braun as part of his coaching staff.
A wealth of international experience
This appointment adds to Amrouche’s extensive coaching resume.
The 55-year-old has previously managed Kenya, Libya, Botswana, Yemen, Burundi, and Tanzania, making Rwanda his seventh international assignment.
His wealth of experience in African football, combined with his tactical knowledge and leadership, is expected to provide Rwanda with the guidance needed to compete at a higher level.
Balancing FIFA role with new coaching job
One uncertainty surrounding Amrouche’s appointment is whether he will continue his role as an expert at FIFA, where he has been working under the guidance of Arsène Wenger since September 2024.
It remains to be seen if he will juggle both roles or focus solely on his duties with Rwanda.
With a proven track record and a point to prove, Amrouche now has the opportunity to reinvent himself and help Rwanda make a mark on the continental stage.
🚨🚨@FERWAFA confirms that ADEL AMROUCHE is the new Head Coach of Amavubi, with Eric Nshimiyimana as his assistant.
Meanwhile, Cassa Mbungo André has been appointed Head Coach of She-Amavubi and will also oversee Football Development within the National Technical Directorate. pic.twitter.com/kC9BTwQ9p2
— Rabbin IMANI Isaac 🇷🇼”W!” (@willarabbin) March 2, 2025
