Hervé Renard, the current head coach of the Moroccan national team, is fully focused on preparing the Atlas Lions for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, a major continental tournament in which Morocco have high ambitions. After guiding the team through qualification and overseeing months of preparation, the French tactician appears determined to lead his side as far as possible in the competition. However, recent rumors linking him with a move to Olympique Lyonnais have raised questions about his future beyond the AFCON.
The speculation gained momentum following Olympique Lyonnais’ decision not to extend the contract of Bruno Genesio. The former OL coach paid the price for a disappointing end to the season, notably failing to deliver a Coupe de France title for Les Gones. As Lyon’s management explores possible replacements, several names have surfaced — and Hervé Renard’s has been mentioned repeatedly in French media circles.
Renard’s profile is certainly attractive. A two-time Africa Cup of Nations winner with Zambia (2012) and Ivory Coast (2015), he has built a strong reputation on the African continent. Since taking charge of Morocco, he has restored stability and competitiveness to the Atlas Lions, leading them back to the World Cup in 2018 and positioning them as serious contenders for the upcoming AFCON. His tactical discipline, motivational skills, and experience in high-pressure tournaments make him an appealing candidate for a club seeking a fresh start.
Asked about the rumors, Renard responded cautiously. Speaking to E-media, the French coach neither confirmed nor firmly denied the reports. “I honestly don’t know where that came from. I’ve never met Gérard Houllier, that’s all I can say. As for the rest, God willing…” he said. The ambiguity of his answer has only fueled further speculation, leaving observers unsure whether the link is completely unfounded or simply premature.
With just over two months remaining before the start of the Africa Cup of Nations, it seems highly unlikely that Renard would abandon the Moroccan national team at such a critical moment. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation has placed its trust in him, and expectations among fans are high. Any departure before the tournament would be seen as a major disruption to Morocco’s preparations and ambitions.
However, the situation could look very different once the AFCON concludes. Should Morocco perform well, Renard’s value on the coaching market would undoubtedly rise even further. At that point, a return to European club football — particularly with a prestigious institution like Olympique Lyonnais — could become a realistic option.
For now, Hervé Renard remains firmly focused on his mission with the Atlas Lions. But as football history has often shown, strong performances on the international stage can quickly open new doors. The post-AFCON period may therefore prove decisive in shaping the next chapter of Renard’s career.
