Hervé Renard Declines Al Ahly Coaching Offer, Eyes National Team Role
French coach Hervé Renard has reportedly turned down an offer to manage Egyptian giants Al Ahly, according to reports from Egyptian media on Thursday. The 47-year-old tactician, renowned for his success in African football, confirmed the reports to the Egyptian sports website FilGoal, revealing that club officials had indeed approached him following the departure of Portuguese coach Jose Peseiro.
Renard, who won acclaim across the continent for leading Zambia to the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations title and guiding Ivory Coast to the 2015 Africa Cup, expressed interest in the Al Ahly offer but emphasized that a national team coaching role would take precedence. For the coach recognized as the Best African Coach of 2015, the prospect of returning to international football holds more appeal than club management at this stage of his career.
“I was contacted by Al Ahly, and naturally I considered the opportunity. However, my priority remains a national team assignment. That is where my focus and ambitions are right now,” Renard confirmed. His decision highlights his commitment to national team management, where he has historically achieved remarkable success, becoming one of Africa’s most respected coaches.
Renard’s coaching résumé in Africa is impressive. Beyond his continental triumphs, he has earned a reputation for building disciplined, tactically astute squads capable of competing at the highest level. His leadership has not only brought trophies but also elevated the profile of the teams he has managed.
Following his African successes, Renard attempted to transition into European club football when he took charge of Lille in France’s Ligue 1 last May. Unfortunately, his tenure at Lille was short-lived, as the club struggled under his management, securing only 13 points in 13 matches, which ultimately led to his dismissal. Despite this setback, Renard remains a highly regarded figure in football circles, particularly in African football.
With Renard declining the Al Ahly offer, the Egyptian giants are now continuing their search for a permanent manager. In the interim, Abdel-Aziz Abdel Shafi has been appointed to lead the team in their upcoming matches against Ismaily and Ittihad, according to the club’s board of directors. Shafi’s role will be temporary, providing stability while the club explores suitable long-term coaching options.
Al Ahly’s pursuit of Renard underscores the club’s ambition to secure top managerial talent capable of guiding them both domestically and in continental competitions. For now, Renard remains focused on his aspirations at the international level, leaving the Egyptian powerhouse to look elsewhere for a permanent coach.
