Karlsruher SC Star Louay Ben Farhat Omitted from Tunisia's World Cup Squad

Tunisian Football Community Reacts to Omission of Promising Young Forward

Tunisia's national team coach Sabri Lamouchi has released the list of players selected for the 2026 World Cup, with Karlsruher SC's young striker Louay Ben Farhat surprisingly missing out. The decision has sparked a flurry of reactions in both Tunisian and international media.

According to reports, Lamouchi had initially planned to include Ben Farhat in the squad, but the player's refusal to join the national team for the World Cup appears to have sealed his fate. The coach claimed to have been taken aback by a phone call from Ben Farhat's father, stating that the young player felt unprepared to join the national team for the tournament.

Lamouchi reportedly attempted to contact Ben Farhat directly, but received no response. This incident allegedly led the coach to decide against calling up the 19-year-old player for the time being.

In an interview with a German newspaper, Ben Farhat clarified his decision not to participate in the World Cup with the national team.

"It wasn't an easy decision to make," Ben Farhat said. "I have immense respect for the national team, the technical staff, and everyone involved in Tunisian football. My choice doesn't reflect a lack of consideration for them.

"This season, I was sidelined for over four months due to a foot fracture. After such an injury, it's challenging to prepare for a major competition like the World Cup, which demands intense physical preparation. I decided to focus on my physical condition and the future of my career instead."

Ben Farhat, considered one of Europe's top young football prospects, has been absent from the pitch for an extended period due to injury. His decision not to join the national team for the World Cup has raised eyebrows, but the young player's priority is now on regaining his fitness and securing a successful future in the sport.