Renard Returns for Second Stint

The Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) has confirmed the return of Herve Renard as head coach of the Ivory Coast national team, 11 years after the Frenchman guided them to their second Africa Cup of Nations title in 2015.

Renard's reappointment comes after the FIF opted not to offer Emerse Fae a new contract when his deal expired on July 31. Fae had taken over mid-tournament during the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations and led Ivory Coast to glory on home soil, before also guiding them into the knockout stages of this year's World Cup.

Fae's Tenure Ends Despite Success

Fae's departure is a surprising one given his achievements. After stepping in during AFCON 2024, he steered the team to continental success and then navigated Ivory Coast through a challenging World Cup campaign. They qualified from Group E in second place, finishing only behind Germany on goal difference, before being knocked out in the round of 32 with a 2-1 defeat to Norway.

Despite those accomplishments, the federation chose not to extend his contract, opening the door for Renard's return.

Renard's Previous Spell and World Cup Stint

During his first spell in charge between 2014 and 2015, Renard won nine of his 18 matches at the helm, drawing five and losing four. His tenure culminated in a dramatic penalty shoot-out victory over Ghana in the 2015 AFCON final before he departed the role.

At this year's World Cup, Renard had taken charge of Tunisia after Sabri Lamouchi was sacked following a 5-1 opening-day defeat to Sweden. However, Renard was unable to turn Tunisia's fortunes around, overseeing further defeats against Japan (0-4) and the Netherlands (1-3) as they finished bottom of Group F.

Qualification Challenge Ahead

Renard's immediate priority will be guiding Ivory Coast to next year's Africa Cup of Nations. The Elephants have been drawn in a tricky qualification group alongside Ghana, setting up a reunion with the very nation they beat in the 2015 final that Renard oversaw.