Maher Kanzari Dismissed as Al Wakrah Coach After Poor Start to Qatar Stars League Campaign
By BBC Sport Middle East | Doha
Tunisian manager Maher Kanzari has been relieved of his duties as head coach of Al Wakrah following the club’s 8th matchday defeat to Lekhwiya in the Qatar Stars League. The decision comes amid a disappointing start to the season, with the club struggling to find consistent form.
Speaking to Al Kaas TV after his dismissal, Kanzari expressed no regrets about his time in charge. “I don’t regret the experience,” he said, acknowledging that several challenges hampered the team’s ability to perform well in the opening phase of the campaign.
Despite the underwhelming start to this season, Kanzari’s tenure was not without merit. He notably helped Al Wakrah avoid relegation at the end of the previous campaign, earning respect for his stabilising influence during a turbulent period for the club.
Kanzari, born on March 17, 1973, in Tunis, has had a varied coaching career that spans both North Africa and the Middle East. He first rose to prominence in 2010 when he succeeded Faouzi Benzarti at the helm of Espérance Sportive de Tunis. However, his stint was short-lived, with Nabil Maâloul soon replacing him.
In January 2011, Kanzari took over at CA Bizertin before moving to Qatar, where he was appointed head coach of Al-Sailiya Sports Club in October 2012, stepping in for German manager Uli Stielike.
Known for his tactical acumen and calm demeanour, Kanzari has built a reputation as a manager capable of navigating complex club environments, though his latest venture with Al Wakrah ended prematurely.
With his departure now official, Al Wakrah will begin the search for a replacement as they aim to turn their season around. As for Kanzari, his experience in both African and Gulf football could make him a viable candidate for other clubs in the region seeking a seasoned hand.
