Stefano Cusin explains decision to leave Comoros after AFCON

Former Comoros national football team head coach Stefano Cusin has confirmed he chose to step down after the Africa Cup of Nations, bringing an end to what he described as a completed cycle following significant progress with the side.

In an exclusive interview with AFU, the Italian coach reflected on his two-and-a-half-year spell in charge, insisting his departure was a planned decision rather than a reaction to external factors.

“I had decided that after the Africa Cup of Nations I would end my adventure. I think we had reached the maximum of our potential,” he said.

When Cusin took over in October 2023, Comoros were in a difficult position after failing to qualify for the AFCON and sitting 135th in the FIFA rankings. Under his leadership, the team experienced a marked rise, climbing 30 places in two years.

“In two years, we’ve climbed 30 places, which represents the best progress in Africa. Comoros is the team that has improved the most,” he emphasizes.

That improvement was reflected in results on the pitch, with notable victories over established sides including Ghana national football team, Tunisia national football team and Cape Verde national football team, alongside key wins against Gambia and Madagascar.

The highlight of his tenure came during the AFCON qualifying campaign, where Comoros finished top of their group unbeaten, boasting both the best attack and defence.

A standout moment was a historic victory away in Tunisia, ending a long unbeaten home run for the hosts.

Beyond results, Cusin highlighted a broader transformation within the squad. “When I took over the team, its market value was estimated at around 3 million euros, according to Transfermarkt.

Today, it’s around 20 million,” he explains. This growth, he noted, was driven by the integration of dual nationals and the development of younger players competing in top divisions.

“The team was aging. I was asked to integrate young players, and I brought in about fifteen. A competitive team is always a mix of experience and youth,” he states.

His approach was evident in a 4-0 friendly victory over Namibia, where seven starters were aged between 18 and 21.

Cusin also pointed to missed opportunities during World Cup qualifying. “We must not forget that we had an exceptional run in the World Cup qualifiers.

We were first for a long time, and unfortunately, we didn’t play on our home ground for two years, which penalized us. I think that if we had played at home, I’m not saying we would have qualified directly, but we could at least have gone to the playoffs,” he says.

Despite the progress, differences over future direction contributed to his departure. “We didn’t necessarily have the same vision for the future. It was important for them to have a new language, and for me to take on a new challenge,” Cusin points out.

He dismissed suggestions that financial reasons played a role, stressing that his decision was based solely on sporting considerations and a sense of completion.

After stepping down, the coach has taken time away from the spotlight following seven years of continuous work. “I needed to recharge, to spend time with my family,” he explains, while continuing to follow football closely and analyse competitions across Africa and Europe.

Looking ahead, Cusin confirmed discussions over his next move are ongoing but no decision has yet been made. “There have been discussions before, during, and after the Africa Cup of Nations. But naturally, some things take time.

I’m not looking for just anything. I want a competitive team with a solid project and people who share the same vision,” concluded Stefano Cusin.