L2 Championship: Frequent Coach Changes Raise Questions
As we approach the 11th day of the L2 championship, nearly a third of the coaches in groups A and B have already been replaced.
A Trend of Consumable Coaches
At this rate, L2 coaches are becoming disposable, mere fuses ready to be replaced as soon as their team falters. The frequent changes in coaches have been a hallmark of this season, with some teams opting for stability and reaping the benefits in the standings. The Green Eagles of CSHL, led by Amine Kammoun, and US Tataouine, directed by Hichem Souissi, are prime examples of this approach, currently topping the rankings alongside CS Msaken, led by Naoufel Chebil.
Exceptions to the Rule
The only exceptions to this trend are the struggling teams, such as Croissant Chebbien, who have maintained their trust in Seif Ghezal, and SA Menzel Bourguiba, who have renewed their confidence in Amir Trifi despite their precarious position in the standings.
Chronic Instability in Group A
For the rest of the coaches in group A, the past few weeks have seen chronic instability in the technical staff. Baâth Bouhajla has managed to maintain their position near the podium, but the team has already "absorbed" two coaches, Majdi Chamkhi and Helmi Hmam, before entrusting Hassen Gabsi with the reins. US Bousalem, on the other hand, has set a record for coach firings, having dismissed Haykel Ayari, Badii Zouaghi, and Abdelkarim Ouji before appointing Skander Majboura. Sfax RS has also had three coaches, Lotfi Jebali, Zied Derbali, and Fakhreddine Galbi, before Bassem Ben Romdhane took over.
Coaches on the Rebound
Several coaches have found new opportunities after being let go by their previous teams. Majboura, Mokrani, Souihli, Melliti, and Hmam have all rebounded with new teams. The OCK replaced Farhat Dahech with Aymen Makhlouf, while the ESHS started with Habib Ben Romdhane before hiring Imed Jebali. Haykel Ayari succeeded Skander Majboura at SCBA, who later joined US Bousalem. Mégrine Sport saw Mohamed Souihli replace Khaled Melliti, and EMM started with Mohamed Souihli before appointing Nasri Ghemam.
Group B: A Similar Story
In group B, the coaching carousel has been just as frequent. While some teams, like Progrès de Sakiet Eddaier, have maintained stability with Yousri Ben Kahla at the helm, others have made multiple changes. The leader of the group, Stadiste Gabésien, has had two coaches, Lotfi Jebali and Ali Hammami, before finding success with their current coach. US Ksour Essef has reaped the benefits of stability with Hachem Ben Njima, while CS Korba, Kalâa Sport, and ES Bouchemma have also avoided frequent coaching changes.
The Psychology of Coaching Changes
Changing coaches mid-season can be a double-edged sword. While it may stimulate a team, it can also have negative consequences. AS Kasserine has had four coaches, Zied Derbali, Saber Trabelsi, Majdi Rachdi, and Hedi Mokrani, before finding success. Jendouba Sport has also made multiple changes, starting with Hafedh Guitouni, then Hedi Mokrani, and finally Khaled Gharbi.
The Rest of the Teams
The remaining teams in Ligue 2 have not been immune to this trend. Othmane Chehaibi has coached two teams, CS Redayef and Olympique Sidi Bouzid, where Helmi Hmam also had a stint. AS Jelma replaced Ramzi Kerid with Zied Derbali, who previously coached Sfax RS. SC Moknine replaced Sami Mosli with Mohamed Hedi Fraj, while EGS Gafsa hired Jihed Zarrouk after firing Farhat Zarrouk. Finally, AS Ariana saw Khaled Melliti, who started the season with Mégrine Sport, replace Maher Guizani.
Conclusion
The frequent coaching changes in Ligue 2 raise questions about the stability and long-term vision of the teams. While some teams have found success with new coaches, others have struggled to find consistency. The trend of disposable coaches is a concern, as it can create a culture of short-term thinking and undermine the development of young players. Ultimately, the success of a team depends on a combination of factors, including coaching, player talent, and team chemistry.
