Experienced Coach Christian Bracconi Takes the Helm
The "Sang et Or" team resumed training yesterday in preparation for their match against Petro Luanda this Saturday, marking the 6th and final day of the group stage of the Champions League. This crucial encounter will be led by Christian Bracconi, the assistant director of the youth technical department.
Initially, the plan was to entrust the team to Christophe Chaintreuil, the director of the youth technical department, assisted by Christian Bracconi. However, Bracconi was ultimately preferred over Chaintreuil, who has a stronger background in training. Bracconi, on the other hand, has a more senior coaching profile and is currently the coach of Espérance's elite team. He has previously coached CA Bastia and the U19 team of Olympique de Marseille.
As the coach of Espérance's elite team, Bracconi requires no adaptation period. His mission is clear: to qualify the team for the Champions League quarterfinals. A goalless draw against Petro Luanda would suffice, although the players are expected to show a strong reaction and play with pride.
No Contact with Tarek Sektioui
Since the announcement of Maher Kanzari's departure, agents have been actively promoting their clients' names to increase their market value. Among the names circulating is Patrice Carteron, whose agent is rumored to be negotiating in Tunis. However, this information has been debunked as false.
Regarding Moroccan technician Tarek Sektioui, an official source confirmed that "no contact has been established so far."
Players Held Accountable
While Maher Kanzari bears some responsibility for the team's recent decline, he is not the sole cause of the problems. The players, who are well-paid, must also take responsibility for their performance. Notably, Yassine Meriah, Hamza Jelassi, and Béchir Ben Saïd have been called out.
During yesterday's training session, the players were reminded of their responsibilities by the club's president, who had harsh words for them.
Ibrahima Keita Suspended
Mauritanian right-back Ibrahima Keita will be suspended for the match against Petro Luanda due to accumulated yellow cards. Interim coach Christian Bracconi will have to choose between Mohamed Dräger and Elyas Bouzaiene to replace Keita.
Read also: Arbitrage: VAR recordings of the CSS-Club Africain match made public (video)
