Esperance Tunis remains undecided on appointing a new head coach, as speculation mounts around Michel Der Zakarian’s potential role at Tunisia’s oldest football club. While the French coach, who boasts extensive managerial experience in French football, emerged as a primary candidate, the club has yet to reach a final decision amid concerns over his suitability.
While Der Zakarian has extensive experience with several French teams, the former Armenian international has not helmed France’s top-tier clubs, a point sparking debate among Esperance officials and fans.
Many in the Esperance fan base, known for their vocal and passionate support, have called on the club’s leadership to reconsider the appointment, pressing for a manager with a more prestigious track record.
Local supporters of the “Blood and Gold” have ramped up pressure on club officials, voicing concerns that Der Zakarian may not be the ideal fit for the team as it navigates a challenging season.
With many high-profile coaches currently available, Esperance could look to a wider pool of candidates if they choose to move on from Der Zakarian.
Esperance’s Season Gets Off to a Rocky Start
The club’s hesitancy to settle on Der Zakarian reflects deeper issues within the squad, which has struggled to find its rhythm in the early stages of the season.
Currently sitting in an uncharacteristic sixth position in the Tunisian championship, Esperance trails league leaders Olympique de Béja by seven points.
Across six matches, the capital club has managed only two wins, accompanied by three draws and a single defeat.
This shaky form has heightened the urgency among fans and club officials alike to make a decision that will strengthen the squad’s outlook for the remainder of the season.
Potential New Avenues Amid Pressure for Change
As Esperance deliberates, speculation grows over alternative candidates with proven track records who may be available.
The prospect of a more accomplished manager taking over at the club could offer Esperance the experience and leadership it seeks as it looks to turn its season around.
For Der Zakarian, the situation underscores the intensity of fan expectations in Tunisian football and the pressure Esperance faces to appoint a coach who can fulfill these high ambitions.
While discussions between Esperance and Der Zakarian remain ongoing, the club’s eventual decision could significantly impact the trajectory of its season, with fans eagerly awaiting clarity on the path forward.
Sauf retournement de situation le franco-armenien Michel Der Zakarian est le prochain coach des Sang et Or 🇧🇪 #CSO1919 pic.twitter.com/lLLis6fVTC
— 🔴🟡 Culture Sang et Or 🔴🟡 (@CSO_1919) October 31, 2024
