Tunisia open AFCON preparations as Sami Trabelsi targets full squad by mid-December

Tunisia launched their training camp on Friday as preparations intensified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, with the first group of selected players gathering in Tabarka for an opening session led by head coach Sami Trabelsi.

The initial training run, held on Friday afternoon, featured several early arrivals from the squad named for the tournament.

Trabelsi oversaw the session as players began settling into camp, marking the formal start of Tunisia’s AFCON build-up.

According to the technical staff, additional squad members are expected to join progressively over the coming days.

Many are still completing commitments with their respective clubs, and the federation has confirmed that arrivals will continue as soon as those responsibilities conclude.

Speaking after the first session, Trabelsi outlined his objective for the early stages of preparation, expressing his desire to have the full complement of players available well before the team departs for the competition.

We hope to have the entire squad before December 15th, he said, noting that a complete group would allow Tunisia to begin tactical work without delays.

With a demanding AFCON ahead, the coach emphasised the importance of cohesion and rhythm in the lead-up to the finals.

Friday’s session was largely introductory, focused on recovery, light fitness routines, and establishing the training structure that will guide the coming weeks.

The staff are expected to gradually increase intensity as more players arrive and the core of the squad becomes available.

The national team’s camp in Tabarka is scheduled to run throughout the month, providing Trabelsi with a sustained period to assess form, address tactical priorities, and finalise his preferred combinations.

The coach has repeatedly stressed the need for strong mental and physical preparation, particularly given the competitive group stages awaiting Tunisia at the AFCON.

Officials within the camp say the atmosphere on the opening day was confident and calm, with players eager to begin the final stretch of work before the continental tournament begins.

Several of those already present are regular internationals who form the backbone of the side, giving Trabelsi a stable base as he awaits the remaining arrivals.

With the countdown to AFCON 2025 now fully underway, Tunisia’s preparations have entered a decisive phase.

The focus from here will be on sharpening the team’s collective play, ensuring fitness levels peak at the right time, and integrating the full squad as soon as possible.

As Trabelsi reiterated, having every player in camp by mid-December remains the immediate priority — a step he believes will give Tunisia the best possible platform for a strong tournament.