The Tunisian football club, Espérance Sportive de Tunis (EST), has experienced an unprecedented level of instability in its coaching staff over the past seven years. Since 2019, a staggering 11 coaches have taken the helm, with some lasting only a few months. This constant change has hindered the team's ability to build a long-term project and achieve success. Despite significant investment from president Hamdi Meddeb, the team has struggled to win its fifth African title.
Hamdi Meddeb, the president and primary financier of the club, has spared no expense in ensuring the team's success. He has consistently cleared the club's debts and invested heavily in the squad, bringing in top talent and coaches. However, his enthusiasm has sometimes worked against the club, with many agents and intermediaries seeking to exploit the situation for personal gain. This has led to a high turnover of players and coaches, with many failing to make a meaningful impact.
Mouine Chaâbani is the only coach to have had a prolonged spell at the helm, taking over in October 2018 and leading the team to two consecutive league titles. His first stint lasted until July 2021, but since then, the team has seen a succession of coaches come and go. Radhi Jaïdi, Nabil Maâloul, and Anis Boussaïdi have all had brief spells, with Chaâbani returning for a second stint that lasted just a few months.
The revolving door of coaches has had a significant impact on the team's performance. Despite Meddeb's best efforts, the team has struggled to compete with the top teams in Africa. The constant changes have made it difficult for the team to develop a cohesive playing style and build a strong team dynamic. This has led to frustration among fans and a sense of disillusionment with the club's leadership.
In an effort to address the issue, Meddeb has appointed Chokri El Ouaer, a former player and club legend, to oversee the football section. El Ouaer has a reputation for being strong-willed and decisive, and Meddeb hopes that he will be able to bring stability and success to the team. One of El Ouaer's first moves has been to ensure that players are not allowed to leave for free, a practice that has cost the club dearly in the past.
The appointment of El Ouaer and the introduction of new measures to manage the club's finances and personnel are seen as positive steps. However, it will take time for the team to rebuild and achieve success. As Meddeb himself has said, it is unrealistic to expect a team to win a title every season. The focus should be on building a strong, cohesive team that can compete with the best in Africa.
The road ahead will not be easy, but with a clear plan and a stable leadership, EST can look to the future with optimism. The appointment of Pablo Franco as coach is a step in the right direction, and with time and patience, he can bring his own style and approach to the team. Ultimately, the goal is to win the Ligue des champions, and with a bit of luck and a lot of hard work, EST can achieve its ambitions.
Key points
- EST has had 11 coaches since 2019.
- The team's instability has hindered its ability to build a long-term project.
- Chokri El Ouaer has been appointed to oversee the football section and bring stability to the team.
