Amir Abdou in talks with Espérance de Tunis
Mauritania boss Amir Abdou, who is expected to leave his post, is in talks with Espérance Sportive de Tunis
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Handed a two-year extension last February after a successful 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, highlighted by a stunning group-stage win over Algeria, Amir Abdou knows his fate is all but sealed.
Bottom of their World Cup qualifying group with one point from four games, Mauritania are also last in their qualifying pool for the next Africa Cup of Nations with one win in four matches, with two games still to play, against Botswana and then Cape Verde.
Unhappy with the results, and with a strained relationship behind the scenes, the Mauritanian Football Federation is making no secret in private of its desire to turn the page if the national team fail to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Abdou is aware of the situation; he has complained of late salary payments (despite a pay rise when he extended his contract) and has been exploring options across the continent for some time.
Espérance want to take their time
Although several clubs have made tentative approaches since the Africa Cup of Nations, Espérance are now the most serious option for the former Comoros coach, who even travelled to Tunis this week.
After a poor start to the league season (sixth in the table) and a defeat at Zarzis, EST sacked Miguel Cardoso, who had nonetheless led the club to the Champions League final a few months ago.
Read also: Espérance de Tunis: end of the road for Miguel Cardoso
President Hamdi Medded insists behind the scenes that he wants to “take his time” to make the right choice, but applications are piling up on his desk. Other coaches have already begun talks with agents or intermediaries close to the board.
Until a permanent appointment is made, Skander Kasri will take charge as caretaker.