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Rabat – Saudi Arabia’s head coach Hervé Renard spoke about his time coaching Morocco’s national team between 2016 and 2019, pointing to the progress made during his tenure and the rise of key players.
In an interview with Jeune Afrique, Renard said his years in Morocco remain a defining chapter in his career.
“When I went to coach Morocco, I had just come out of a difficult period with Lille,” Renard explained. “Today I can say that 90% of the experience was positive, and there are many lessons worth keeping.”
He commended Morocco football president Fouzi Lekjaa, elected in 2014, for modernizing the sport in the country. “Lekjaa worked hard to provide excellent infrastructure and create a highly professional environment,” Renard noted.
Renard recalled his own role in revitalizing the national team, guiding Morocco to the 2018 World Cup, their first appearance since 1998. “I helped re-energize the squad and contributed to the emergence of players like Achraf Hakimi and Youssef En-Nesyri, among others.”
“Today Morocco is ranked among the top ten to fifteen teams in the world, and I am proud to have been part of that project,” he beamed.
The French coach also revealed why he turned down the chance to lead Senegal after Aliou Cisse’s departure in 2023. “Not all the conditions were in place in Senegal, but I was tempted by the challenge,” he admitted.
“If a well-organized federation presents a strong sporting project, it could interest me. Money is not the main factor, it never has been.”
Renard made clear that Africa remains close to his heart. “I feel comfortable in Africa, and I will return one day,” he said.
At the time, Renard was a free agent and considered one of the leading candidates for Senegal’s bench. Ultimately, he chose not to accept the role, keeping his focus on projects that align with his values and vision.
