Fakhreddine Ben Youssef Reacts to Tunisia AFCON Exclusion
Fakhreddine Ben Youssef has publicly expressed his frustration after being left out of Tunisia’s squad for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. The Al-Ettifaq striker, currently playing in Saudi Arabia, was excluded by coach Alain Giresse, who cited concerns over the player’s physical fitness as the reason for his omission.
Ben Youssef, however, does not agree with the decision. Taking to Facebook, he voiced his dissatisfaction, insisting that the explanation given by the coaching staff is unfounded. The striker emphasized that he had delivered a strong performance during Tunisia’s recent 2-0 friendly victory over Iraq, a match in which he contributed effectively and showcased his fitness on the pitch.
The 28-year-old forward also highlighted his long-standing commitment to the national team. Having been capped 47 times for the Eagles of Carthage, Ben Youssef believes that his experience and consistent performances should have weighed in his favor. “I have represented Tunisia for years, and I have always given my best on the field. To be evaluated as physically unfit after so many years of national team service is difficult to understand,” he wrote.
Ben Youssef’s reaction points to a larger debate about squad selection and transparency in the decision-making process for national teams. Fans and observers have also questioned why a player of his experience—who has competed at a high level in Saudi Arabia and previously in Europe—would be deemed unfit just before a major tournament. For a striker with his track record, being omitted from a continental competition is both surprising and disheartening.
The forward’s exclusion leaves Tunisia without one of its seasoned attacking options. Ben Youssef’s physical presence, finishing ability, and familiarity with international competition have been key assets for the Carthage Eagles in past campaigns. His absence will likely put additional pressure on other forwards in the squad, such as Wahbi Khazri, Youssef Msakni, and Firas Chawat, to fill the void during Egypt 2019.
While Ben Youssef has respected the coaching decision publicly, his Facebook post makes it clear that he disagrees with the reasoning. He also implicitly urges the Tunisian Football Federation and coaching staff to reconsider how such decisions are communicated, especially to veteran players who have consistently contributed to the national team’s efforts.
The striker’s disappointment is compounded by the timing of the announcement. Tunisia is in the midst of final preparations for the AFCON, and Ben Youssef had hoped to participate in pre-tournament friendlies and training sessions to sharpen his form. Being excluded now means he will miss the opportunity to contribute to Tunisia’s campaign in Egypt, a significant blow for a player who has represented his country with dedication for many years.
Fakhreddine Ben Youssef’s reaction underscores the emotional stakes for professional players when major tournament selections are announced. Despite his frustration, the striker remains a celebrated figure in Tunisian football, and his contributions to the national team over nearly a decade are unlikely to be forgotten.
