EGYPT EYE GEORGES LEEKENS FOR COACHING ROLE, BUT TUNISIA STAND FIRM
Despite being confirmed as Tunisia’s national team coach through March 2016, Georges Leekens has attracted interest from Egypt, who are reportedly eager to bring in the experienced Belgian to take charge of the Pharaohs’ national team.
According to information published by the UNAF website, the Egyptian Football Federation (EFA) has already taken steps to initiate contact, sending an emissary to Tunisia to explore the possibility of negotiating Leekens’s release.
🇪🇬 Egypt’s Interest
Egypt, a seven-time African champion, is in a phase of rebuilding after failing to qualify for recent Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and is reportedly looking for a seasoned tactician who understands the African game well. Leekens’s recent performance with Tunisia, including an unbeaten group stage run and a controversial exit in the quarter-finals, has caught their attention.
🇹🇳 Tunisia Holding On
However, the Tunisian Football Federation (FTF) has reaffirmed its faith in Leekens, retaining him after AFCON 2015. The Belgian himself has publicly declared his attachment to Tunisia and interest in helping the Carthage Eagles qualify for the 2018 World Cup and the 2016 Olympic Games.
⚖️ What Could Happen?
Leekens is under contract until 2016, so any move would likely require compensation or mutual agreement. Whether the EFA is willing to make a strong enough offer to convince both the coach and the FTF remains to be seen.
One thing is clear: Egypt will face a tough challenge if they hope to lure Leekens away from his current post in Tunisia.
