The football community was abuzz with the potential appointment of Hervé Renard to lead the national team of Ivory Coast. However, the acclaimed French coach faced an unexpected hurdle as the French Football Federation (FFF) promptly rejected the proposition. Renard, known as the “white wizard,” unpacked the sequence of events during a press conference where he unveiled the squad for the Final Four of the Nations League.
The possibility of Renard taking charge of the Ivorian squad, following Jean-Louis Gasset’s dismissal, was met with enthusiasm by the double winner of the African Cup.
However, the FFF’s categorical refusal presented a stark reality. Renard, in a composed manner, addressed the episode that had dominated headlines for days.
“I experienced it calmly since I had already been contacted, so we must not reverse the roles. Then, I thought, I know the African continent by heart.
I experienced an exceptional adventure with this team in 2015, and the challenges are part of my chaotic career, different from that of many others.
Sometimes you have to know how to accept differences, be a little more tolerant,” explained Renard.
Contrary to the perception that Renard might have needed to defy the French federation, he emphasized that he sought the right approach.
The experienced coach indicated that he urged the Ivorian Football Federation (FiF) to engage in discussions with their French counterparts to find an amicable resolution.
“I don’t think I offended anyone. I asked the president of the Ivorian federation to contact our president.
They talked. My first decision was to absolutely continue with the French women’s team, which is my priority.
I am entirely with this French women’s team,” asserted Renard, highlighting his commitment to the French women’s national team.
