Hakim Zahafi appointed as head coach of US Tataouine amid financial struggles
Union Sportive de Tataouine (US Tataouine) has officially named Hakim Zahafi as the new head coach of its first football team. The appointment comes just nine days before the start of the Tunisian Ligue Professionnelle 1, leaving the coach with little time to prepare his squad for their opening match of the season. The team has faced significant financial difficulties that have delayed preparations, but Zahafi is now tasked with guiding the club forward.
The club, which had been struggling to put together a preseason due to financial challenges lingering from the previous season, finally held its first training session this afternoon at 4:00 p.m. GMT.
Though the timing may be late for a club about to enter a new season, the players gathered to begin preparations for what is expected to be a demanding campaign.
Zahafi’s appointment, while vital, was only confirmed yesterday evening.
The club did not disclose the length of the new coach’s contract, signaling that the focus is firmly on immediate results rather than long-term plans.
Zahafi inherits a team that is underprepared, with only nine days left before they face reigning champions Espérance Sportive de Tunis in their season opener—a daunting task for any club, let alone one facing Tataouine’s constraints.
US Tataouine’s delayed preseason has raised concerns among supporters, with the club’s financial instability playing a significant role in its late start.
Last season’s difficulties have carried over into the new campaign, forcing Tataouine to scramble in their efforts to organize the team.
The confirmation of Zahafi as head coach marks a significant step forward for the club, but it comes with considerable pressure to deliver in a short time frame.
The team’s first match of the season, against Espérance Sportive de Tunis, will be a stern test for Zahafi and his newly assembled squad.
Facing the title holders away from home, Zahafi’s men will need to be at their best despite the hurried preparations.
The late start may put them at a disadvantage, but the hope remains that the team can rally under Zahafi’s leadership and surprise the league with a strong performance.
As US Tataouine embarks on its season, the financial difficulties will remain a lingering concern.
The club’s management will need to navigate these challenges carefully, ensuring that Zahafi and his squad receive the support they need to compete at a high level.
The lack of clarity regarding Zahafi’s contract also suggests that the club may be keeping its options open, depending on the results he can deliver in these early matches.
The Tunisian football landscape is competitive, and US Tataouine will need to find their rhythm quickly if they are to avoid being overwhelmed in the early stages of the season.
Zahafi’s appointment represents a fresh start, but with limited time and resources, the road ahead remains challenging.
Nonetheless, the team’s fans will hope that their new coach can inspire a turnaround and help the club overcome its difficulties as they prepare for a tough battle against Espérance and the rest of the league.
