Following the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, the Tunisian Football Federation decided to turn the page by changing its national team coach. To lead the Eagles of Carthage, they chose Sabri Lamouchi, a former French international and ex-coach. This appointment was not met with unanimous approval from Tunisian fans. Some questioned Lamouchi's attachment to Tunisia, pointing out that the former midfielder, despite being of Tunisian descent, had opted to represent France during his playing career, earning 12 caps.

Faced with criticism, the new coach felt compelled to set the record straight during his introductory press conference. He went into detail about the circumstances that led him to not wear the Tunisian jersey.

“In 1993, I was playing in the second division in France. Contrary to what is said, the Tunisian federation did not come looking for me spontaneously. It was my cousin who insisted. I was called, I traveled and everyone knows that I did not play. If I had not wanted to come, I would not have come. The reception was what it was,” he explained.

Lamouchi also mentions a certain incomprehension and a feeling of injustice during this experience, without ever having had a clear explanation with the coach at the time.

“I warmed up for thirty minutes without getting on the pitch, without anyone explaining why. At that point, I was given to understand that Tunisian players playing in Europe were considered better than those playing in Tunisia. Then, after I arrived in Auxerre, nobody contacted me again.”

It was ultimately the French national team, boasting many dual-nationality players at the time, that opened its doors to him. A choice that subsequently sparked debate, particularly in Tunisia.

"I can accept many things, but I do not accept that my love for Tunisia or the respect I deserve as a man be called into question," he concluded, visibly moved.

With this clarification, Sabri Lamouchi now hopes to ease tensions and convince Tunisian supporters of his total commitment to leading the national team.