Sabri Lamouchi: Coaching the Tunisian National Team is My Greatest Challenge
Photo credit: © Mokhtar HMIMA
In his first official press conference as the new coach of the Tunisian national team, Sabri Lamouchi expressed his excitement and pride in taking on this new role. He considers coaching the Tunisian team to be the most significant challenge of his career, and even his life, at the age of 54.
Clarifying the Past
Lamouchi addressed his first call-up to the national team in 1993, stating that it was his cousin, a media worker, who recommended him to the federation. He denied claims that the federation came looking for him, saying that he was a second-division player at the time. Lamouchi also mentioned that he didn't have a meeting with the coach back then and didn't play in any games. He then joined the French team for the 1996 European Cup.
A Dream Come True
Lamouchi expressed his joy and pride in coaching the Tunisian team, considering it the greatest challenge of his career. He emphasized that his goal is to give the team an identity and make it perform well in the World Cup.
Preparing for the World Cup
The new coach discussed the preparation program for the World Cup, which includes four friendly matches against competitive teams. He stressed that the focus should be on the World Cup games, not the friendlies, and that the team will do its best to play a fourth match in the tournament.
Respect for His Predecessor
Lamouchi refused to comment on his predecessor's work, showing respect for the former coach. He acknowledged that the team's qualification for the World Cup was thanks to Sami Trabelsi's efforts and emphasized that regular qualification for the World Cup indicates that Tunisian football is not in crisis.
Watching and Learning
Lamouchi mentioned that he has been watching league matches on TV to avoid being a distraction. He found some matches to be boring but is working on giving the team an identity and preparing them for the World Cup.
Player Relationships
When asked about his relationship with Youssef Msakni during his time at Duhail, Lamouchi said that Msakni was at the end of his cycle with the club, and he validated the club's decision not to renew his contract. He described Msakni as a talented player who can make a difference in a game.
Regarding Rani Khedira, Lamouchi stated that he would call up players with potential and who can add value to the team. However, he won't beg binational players to join the team, leaving it up to Khedira to explain his refusal to join the team in 2018 and 2022.
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