Hervé Renard returns for second spell as Ivory Coast head coach

Ivory Coast has turned back to a familiar face. Hervé Renard has officially been appointed head coach of the national team, beginning a second stint in charge of the Elephants. Renard takes over from Emerse Faé, whose contract expired on 31 July 2026. The federation chose not to extend the previous coach's deal and instead turned to a man who already knows how to win with this squad. Renard led Ivory Coast to the Africa Cup of Nations title in 2015, securing the country's second continental crown. The federation said Renard will begin preparing the team for upcoming international competitions. He is expected to arrive in Abidjan in the coming days and will be formally presented during a special press conference. The 57-year-old Frenchman's last role was with Tunisia, which he coached at the 2026 World Cup. He had joined the side during the tournament following the resignation of Sabri Lamouchi.