Raymond Domenech in Advanced Talks to Become Ivory Coast Coach
By BBC Sport Africa
Former France national team manager Raymond Domenech is emerging as a leading candidate to take charge of the Ivory Coast national team, with negotiations reportedly at an “advanced stage” following dissatisfaction with the current pool of applicants.
The Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) recently closed its call for candidates to succeed Hervé Renard, who stepped down after leading the Elephants to their 2015 Africa Cup of Nations triumph. A selection committee is now tasked with shortlisting five potential names from the applications received.
However, according to a French agent speaking to sport-ivoire.ci, the FIF is reportedly disappointed with the quality of the applications submitted, finding that most candidates lack the stature or experience required to manage the reigning African champions.
“The Ivorian Federation expected big names. Instead, they received applications from candidates they don’t believe are capable of continuing the momentum built under Renard,” said the agent.
In light of this, FIF officials have reopened discussions with Domenech, who previously applied for the role during the last recruitment cycle but lost out to Renard. Talks have reportedly progressed well this time, with the agent claiming there is a 60% chance that Domenech will be appointed as head coach.
Domenech, now 63, last held a managerial role with France from 2004 to 2010, guiding Les Bleus to the 2006 FIFA World Cup final but ending his tenure amid controversy and a disappointing 2010 campaign in South Africa.
Despite being out of frontline management for several years, Domenech’s experience on the international stage and familiarity with French-speaking African football could make him an attractive option for the Ivorian FA, especially as they look to defend their continental crown and qualify for the 2018 World Cup.
No official statement has been made by the FIF yet, but an announcement is expected in the coming weeks as the federation finalises its shortlist and seeks a coach capable of sustaining Ivory Coast’s recent success on the African and global stage.
