Tunisian coach Sabri Lamouchi reveals Louey Ben Farhat call-up was rejected by player’s father

Tunisia coach Sabri Lamouchi has revealed that teenage winger Louey Ben Farhat was left out of the national team squad after the player’s father rejected the proposed call-up.

The unexpected development emerged during a press conference in which Lamouchi explained why the 19-year-old Karlsruhe player was absent from the latest Tunisia squad despite being considered for selection.

“I received a call from Louey Ben Farhat’s father this morning. He told me it was too early to select him, and he refused,” Lamouchi said.

The coach’s comments shed light on a situation that had prompted questions after the young winger’s name failed to appear on the final list.

Ben Farhat, who currently plays for German club Karlsruher SC, had reportedly been viewed as a possible addition to the Tunisian squad as the national side continues to assess emerging talent.

However, Lamouchi indicated that the decision was influenced by factors beyond football considerations alone.

According to the Tunisia coach, the player’s father contacted him directly and expressed concerns that an international call-up had arrived too early in the youngster’s development.

Lamouchi also admitted he was surprised by the lack of direct communication from the player and those around him during the process.

The former Ivory Coast international described the situation as difficult to fully understand, suggesting there had been uncertainty and silence from the player’s camp before the final decision was made.

The incident has drawn attention to the complexities that can sometimes surround international selection, particularly for young dual-nationality players still at an early stage in their careers.

For Tunisia, the case highlights that national team decisions can involve personal and family considerations in addition to sporting performances on the pitch.

As things stand, Lamouchi’s public explanation remains the only official clarification regarding Ben Farhat’s omission from the squad.

The situation also leaves uncertainty over the winger’s future involvement with Tunisia, with no indication yet as to whether he could be considered again for selection at a later stage.