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Hervé Renard
Hervé Renard
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Hervé Jean-Marie Roger Renard (born 30 September 1968) is a French professional football coach and former player who is the head coach of Saudi Arabia.

Key Information

Renard has previously been the manager of Zambia national team, with whom he won the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations; he also won the competition in 2015 with the Ivory Coast, becoming the first coach to win two Africa Cup of Nations with different teams. In addition, he coached Morocco at the 2018 World Cup. From 2019 to 2023, he was the manager of Saudi Arabia before he became manager of the France women's team ahead of the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup. In October 2024, he returned to Saudi Arabia for the second time.

Early life

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Hervé Jean-Marie Roger Renard[1] was born on 30 September 1968 in Aix-les-Bains, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.[2] His maternal grandparents were from Poland.[3]

Playing career

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Renard played as a defender for French clubs Cannes, Stade de Vallauris and Draguignan in a playing career which lasted from 1983 to 1998.[citation needed] After retiring as a professional player, he worked as a cleaner, working there in the morning and training with SC Draguignan in the evening, eventually starting his own cleaning company.[4][5]

Coaching career

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Early years

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Renard began his coaching career with Draguignan.[5] He was an assistant at Chinese side Shanghai Cosco with head coach Claude Le Roy from 2002 to 2003,[4] and managed English side Cambridge United in 2004,[6][7] having first joined the club with Le Roy to serve as a coach.[8]

He became manager of Vietnamese club Nam Dinh in 2004, leaving them after several months.[9] He became manager of Cherbourg in 2005, leaving them in 2007.[10] Next, he worked again with Le Roy as an assistant coach for the Ghana national side.[11]

Zambia

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In May 2008, Renard was appointed manager of the Zambia national team.[12] At the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations, he led Zambia to the quarter final stage of the tournament for the first time in 14 years.[13] Renard left his duties as Zambia manager in April 2010 with only two months remaining on his contract.[14] Two days later, he agreed to become manager of Angola.[15] He resigned from his position as Angola manager in October 2010, and was replaced by Zeca Amaral.[16]

USM Alger

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On 21 January 2011, Renard reached an agreement with Algerian club USM Alger to become the head coach of the club.[17]

Second spell with Zambia

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On 22 October 2011, it was announced that Renard had returned for a second stint as coach of Zambia on a one-year contract.[18] He led the team to their first victory in the AFCON in 2012. The win was dedicated to the 18 players who perished in April 1993, after a plane carrying the squad crashed just miles from the site of the 2012 final in Gabon.[19]

In May 2012, Chishimba Kambwili, the Zambian sports minister, announced he expected Renard to sign a new contract by the end of the month.[20]

After Zambia were eliminated from the group stages of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, Renard said that it was his fault.[21] He later criticised CAF for not allowing Zambia, as the 2012 winners of the AFCON, the chance to compete at the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup.[22]

Renard was released from his contract by the Football Association of Zambia in October 2013, in preparation for a role with French club Sochaux.[23]

Sochaux

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On 7 October 2013 it was announced that Renard was appointed as the new manager of French Ligue 1 side Sochaux.[24] In April 2014, he was linked with the Morocco national team job.[25][26]

The club was involved in a relegation fight in May 2014,[27] and after being relegated, he left the club later that month.[28] In July 2014, he was announced to be on the shortlist for the Ivory Coast job.[29]

Ivory Coast

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Renard as Ivory Coast at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.

Renard was appointed as manager of the Ivory Coast national team in July 2014.[30] He was manager at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, and praised the organization of the tournament.[31] He won the competition, becoming the first coach to win two Africa Cup of Nations with different countries.[32]

Lille

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Renard became manager of French club Lille in May 2015.[33] On 11 November 2015, he was sacked after getting only 13 points in 13 league games.[34]

Morocco

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Renard as Morocco manager at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

In February 2016, Renard was linked with the vacant Morocco national team job.[35] Later that month he was appointed as the new Morocco manager.[36] In October 2016 he was linked with the vacant Algeria national team job.[37]

In November 2017, he qualified Morocco to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, their first since 1998.[38] Later that month, he signed a new contract, until 2022.[39] In July 2019 the Moroccan team was eliminated from the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, with Renard taking responsibility for the "shock exit".[40] He resigned a few days later, on 15 July 2019.[41][42]

Saudi Arabia

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Later in July 2019 he became manager of Saudi Arabia, the first Frenchman to do so.[43][44] On 10 September 2019, he managed his first official match against Yemen in the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification.[45] In March 2022, Renard led Saudi Arabia to qualification for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and in the process became the foreign-born manager with the most wins (18) in the nation's history.[46] In their opening game of the World Cup, he led Saudi Arabia to a 2–1 win over Argentina, one of the pre-tournament favourites, in what was considered one of the biggest shock results in World Cup history.[47] However, Saudi Arabia lost the other two matches against Poland and Mexico, and were eventually eliminated from the group stage.[48] His final game was a friendly, which he lost 1-2 to Bolivia.[49] He was replaced by Roberto Mancini.[50]

France women

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In March 2023, Renard was linked with the job as coach of France women's national football team following the dismissal of Corinne Diacre.[51] On 29 March, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation accepted Renard's resignation, in order to begin his tenure as coach of the France women's team.[52] On 30 March, Renard officially became the manager of France's women's national team, succeeding Diacre with a contract lasted until August 2024.[53] He was tasked with preparing the team for the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup amid player changes and conflicts, particularly with management.[54]

Renard became the first coach to manage teams in two different senior World Cups in the same year,[54] and the second manager to have coached at both the men's and women's World Cups after Englishman John Herdman.[55]

On 29 July 2023, he became the first coach to win a match in both the men's and women's World Cups after France defeated Brazil in the group stage.[56] However, France were eliminated on penalties in the quarter-finals, losing to Australia.[57]

In January 2024, the Ivory Coast men's team attempted to temporarily hire Renard for the delayed 2024 AFCON tournament, which was rejected by the French Football Federation.[58]

It was announced that Renard would leave his role after the 2024 Summer Olympics, being succeeded by assistant Laurent Bonadei.[59][60]

Return to Saudi Arabia

[edit]

On 26 October 2024, Renard was reappointed as head coach of Saudi Arabia, after the sacking of Roberto Mancini during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification.[61] A year later, on 14 October, he guided the national team to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, finishing at the top of their group in the qualification fourth round after a goalless draw with Iraq.[62]

Managerial statistics

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As of match played 14 October 2025[63]
Managerial record by team and tenure
Team From To Record
G W D L Win %
Cambridge United 1 January 2004 12 May 2004 6 2 2 2 033.33
Cherbourg 1 July 2005 30 June 2007 77 19 31 27 024.68
Zambia 7 May 2008 6 April 2010 18 5 4 9 027.78
Angola 8 April 2010 6 October 2010 3 0 0 3 000.00
USM Alger 18 January 2011 23 October 2011 22 9 7 6 040.91
Zambia 24 October 2011 6 October 2013 24 11 9 4 045.83
Sochaux 7 October 2013 24 May 2014 33 11 8 14 033.33
Ivory Coast 29 June 2014 25 May 2015 18 9 5 4 050.00
Lille OSC 26 May 2015 11 November 2015 14 3 7 4 021.43
Morocco 16 February 2016 21 July 2019 45 25 9 11 055.56
Saudi Arabia 29 July 2019 28 March 2023 45 20 10 15 044.44
France women's 30 March 2023 6 August 2024 17 12 3 2 070.59
Saudi Arabia 26 October 2024 Present 19 9 5 5 047.37
Total 341 135 100 106 039.59

Personal life

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Renard is in a relationship with Viviane Dièye, the widow of coach Bruno Metsu.[64]

Honours

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Hervé Renard (born 30 September 1968) is a French professional and former defender, renowned for his success with African national teams and his tactical acumen in high-stakes international tournaments. He is the only coach in history to win the with two different countries, leading to the title as underdogs in 2012 and to victory in 2015. Renard has managed prominent sides including Cambridge United, , (twice), and the France women's national team, with notable achievements such as guiding to a historic 2–1 upset over at the . As of November 2025, he serves as head coach of the national team, having returned to the role in 2024 to secure their qualification for the . Born in , , Renard began his playing career as a centre-back in the lower divisions of French football, representing at under-17 level and retiring in 1998 at age 29 after stints with clubs like and . To make ends meet post-retirement, he worked as a cleaner for eight years, rising at 2:30 a.m. to complete shifts before dedicating afternoons to coaching. His coaching journey started young, at age 20, with youth teams at and Girondins de , where he spent over a decade developing talent. Renard's first senior role came at in 1999, but his international breakthrough occurred as assistant to veteran coach , joining him at Shanghai Cosco in 2002. Renard's managerial career gained momentum in Africa, where he took charge of in 2008, rebuilding the team and culminating in their first-ever triumph in 2012, achieved in , , after a dramatic win over . Following a brief, unsuccessful spell at club in 2013–14, he switched to in 2014, delivering their second continental title in 2015 with a 2–0 final victory over . He then led to the , their first appearance since 1998, before a move to in 2019. There, Renard instilled discipline and flair, most memorably masterminding the 2022 shock against , though the team exited the group stage. In 2023, he made history as the first man to coach a major women's national team at a , guiding to the quarter-finals before departing; his return to in 2024 has focused on preparation, including a successful qualification campaign marked by key wins in . Renard's nomadic path across continents highlights his adaptability and motivational prowess, earning him a reputation as one of football's most intriguing tacticians.

Early life and education

Childhood and family background

Hervé Renard was born on September 30, 1968, in , a town in the department of southeastern . Renard, an only child, was raised primarily by his mother, who worked in the hospitality sector; his father was an industrial worker. His mother's family had Polish roots, with her parents having fled during and settled in . Renard's early childhood in the lakeside community of exposed him to a modest, working-class environment that shaped his formative years up to . His initial interest in football emerged through family encouragement and local opportunities, as he began playing informally in the town's surroundings. From 1980 to 1982, he joined the youth ranks (minimes team) of Aix-les-Bains' local football club, where his talent quickly stood out among peers.

Education and early influences

Hervé Renard grew up in , where he attended local primary and secondary schools during his early teenage years. He benefited from his mother's emphasis on discipline and personal values, which complemented the family's support for his educational development. At age 15 in 1983, Renard relocated to to join the youth academy. He continued his secondary education at , which offered sports studies, while immersing himself in professional football training. This period marked a shift toward a more athletic-focused lifestyle, influenced by mentors within the club's environment who encouraged balancing physical development with basic scholastic responsibilities.

Playing career

Club career

Hervé Renard began his professional football career as a defender with , joining the club's youth academy in 1983 at the age of 15 and progressing to the senior team by 1986, where he remained until 1991. During his time at Cannes, he made limited first-team appearances in the top flight, including one match in during the 1988–89 season and another in the in 1989, where he played the full 90 minutes in the league outing and 120 minutes in the cup tie without scoring. His role was primarily in the reserves, contributing to defensive stability in youth and second-team setups, though detailed statistics from these levels are scarce. In 1991, Renard moved to Stade de Vallauris, a club competing in 's lower divisions such as the Championnat de France Amateur (CFA), where he spent the next six years until 1997 as a central defender. This period represented the bulk of his , focused on regional and semi-professional football, but no senior competitive appearances or goals are recorded in major databases for Vallauris, reflecting the limited visibility of fourth-tier play at the time. Renard was known for his physical presence at 1.84 meters tall and right-footed defending style, though he did not achieve notable individual accolades or high-profile matches during this stint. Renard concluded his career with in the 1997–98 season, another lower-division side in the French football pyramid, retiring at the age of 29 in July 1998 after a total of just two documented senior appearances and no goals across his professional tenure. His club career was modest, confined largely to France's domestic lower leagues without progression to sustained top-tier involvement or international exposure as a player.

International career

Renard's international playing career was confined to France's youth setups, where he represented the under-17 team in the mid-1980s. His strong performances as a defender for during this period contributed to his selection for the national youth squads. He notably shared the pitch with promising talents like , who would later become a key figure in French football, during these youth internationals. However, Renard did not receive any call-ups to the senior national team, a pathway blocked by intense competition from prominent defenders such as and , who dominated the positions during his prime playing years. With zero senior caps and no participation in major tournaments like the , his international exposure remained limited to training camps and friendly matches at the youth level. Reflecting on this brief experience, Renard has noted that recognizing his limitations as a player early on—despite the opportunities at youth level—pushed him toward , where he later channeled his insights into developing national teams, emphasizing resilience and tactical discipline drawn from his own unfulfilled ambitions.

Coaching career

Early coaching roles

Renard began his career in the late shortly after retiring as a player due to , taking charge as of in the French lower divisions from July 1999 to June 2001. During this time, he supported himself with various jobs, including cleaning duties that started at 2:30 a.m. and ended around noon, before heading to training sessions in the afternoon. In December 2002, Renard moved abroad for his next role as assistant coach to at Shanghai Cosco in , a position he held until April 2003, marking his first international experience outside . He then returned to , serving as head coach of English League Two club Cambridge United in two short stints from July to December 2003 and January to May 2004. There, he emphasized discipline and early-morning training sessions starting at 5:30 a.m., though the team struggled, winning only a handful of matches during his tenure. Renard's peripatetic early career continued in with a brief head coaching role at Nam Dinh FC in from July to September 2004. He then returned to France in July 2005 as of AS Cherbourg in the (third tier), where he remained until June 2007. Under his leadership, Cherbourg achieved solid results, including a fifth-place finish in the 2005–06 season and third place the following year, just missing promotion to after losing in the playoffs. In 2007, Renard gained his first exposure to African football as assistant coach to for the national team, preparing for the and contributing to their qualification efforts. This role honed his tactical acumen in a competitive international environment and laid the groundwork for his future successes on the continent.

Zambia national team (2008–2010)

Hervé Renard was appointed as head coach of the in May 2008, following his role as assistant to with Ghana's national team. He inherited a squad that had struggled under previous management, including a failure to qualify for the , and immediately focused on rebuilding by integrating younger talents and emphasizing discipline and tactical discipline. Drawing from his experience in African football, Renard prioritized physical conditioning and team cohesion, often conducting grueling training sessions to transform the Chipolopolo into a more competitive unit. Under Renard's guidance, Zambia secured qualification for the (AFCON) by finishing second in their group with 7 points from four matches, including a 1-0 home win over that clinched their spot as one of the best runners-up. Although they exited the qualifiers in third place in Group C with just 5 points from six matches—behind and —the team showed improvement in regional competitions, such as winning bronze at the by defeating 2-0 in the third-place match. Zambia's ranking fluctuated during this period but ended 2010 at 76th, an improvement from 84th at the end of , reflecting gradual progress amid inconsistent results. At the 2010 AFCON in , Renard led Zambia to the quarter-finals for the first time since , advancing from Group D with a 1–1 draw against , a 2–3 loss to (but qualified on goal difference), and a 2–1 victory over . They were eliminated 5-4 on penalties by after a 0-0 draw, with Renard praising the team's resilience despite defensive lapses. Key to this run was forward , who captained the side, scored crucial goals, and provided leadership in midfield, helping stabilize the attack during high-stakes matches. Renard employed a flexible tactical approach, often utilizing a 4-3-3 formation to balance defensive solidity with quick transitions, allowing players like Katongo to exploit spaces on the counter. Renard's tenure ended abruptly in April 2010 when he resigned two months before his contract expired, amid disputes over extension negotiations and reports of a lucrative offer from the national team. He briefly served as head coach of from April to October 2010, managing three matches. In 33 matches with , he recorded 14 wins, 8 draws, and 11 losses, achieving a 42% win rate and laying the foundation for future success through player development and strategic recruitment. Notable results included a 4-1 friendly win over in November 2009 and third place at the , where defeated hosts Côte d'Ivoire 4-0 in the group stage.

USM Alger (2010–2011)

Renard was appointed head coach of USM Alger on 21 January 2011, shortly after parting ways with the Angola national team. This marked his return to club management in North Africa, where he sought to adapt his tactical expertise honed in sub-Saharan international football to the competitive demands of Algerian Ligue 1, characterized by intense rivalries and passionate supporter bases. Taking over mid-season during the 2010–11 campaign, Renard inherited a squad in 12th place and facing relegation pressure after a poor start under previous management. Under his guidance, USM Alger mounted a recovery, securing a mid-table 9th-place finish out of 16 teams with 38 points from 30 matches. Notable results included a 2–0 victory over MC Alger and a 3–1 win against JS Kabylie, which helped stabilize the team's standing and avoid the drop zone. Renard focused on bolstering the attack through strategic signings, including midfielder Yacine Bezzaz on a free transfer from AS Cherbourg, enhancing midfield creativity and contributing to improved cohesion. Despite these improvements, Renard's tenure was marked by significant challenges, including mounting fan expectations for immediate title contention at one of Algeria's historic clubs and persistent administrative hurdles within the organization, such as ownership transitions and resource constraints. These pressures culminated in his on 23 October 2011, after just nine months in charge. Over 22 matches across the 2010–11 and early 2011–12 seasons, his teams recorded 9 wins, 7 draws, and 6 losses, scoring 40 goals while conceding 18, for a win rate of 41% and an average of 1.55 points per game.

Zambia national team (2011–2013)

Renard returned to the national team as head coach on 21 October 2011, appointed by the Football Association of Zambia on a one-year contract following his departure from , where he had helped secure mid-table stability. Drawing on the squad's heightened motivation from his recent club success and lessons from his first stint with Zambia (2008–2010), Renard emphasized discipline and tactical cohesion to rebuild confidence ahead of key tournaments. Under Renard's guidance, Zambia achieved their historic first (AFCON) title at the 2012 edition co-hosted by and . In the group stage (), they topped the standings undefeated, securing a 2–1 victory over with goals from and , a 2–2 draw against , and a 2–0 win over . In the knockout rounds, advanced with a convincing 3–0 quarterfinal win over , highlighted by goals from , , and James Chamanga, before edging 1–0 in extra time during the semifinal thanks to a late Mayuka strike. The final against heavily favored ended 0–0 after 120 minutes, with prevailing 8–7 in a tense —Sunzu's decisive kick sealing the triumph after misses from both sides, including from in regulation time. Renard praised the team's resilient spirit and set-piece execution as key to the upset victory, which he dedicated to the memory of the 1993 Zambia national team plane crash victims. As defending champions, faltered at the 2013 AFCON in , exiting in the group stage () after three draws: 1–1 against , 1–1 versus , and 0–0 with , finishing behind and on . Renard accepted full responsibility for the early elimination, stating it was his tactical shortcomings rather than the players' efforts, though he expressed pride in their maximum commitment despite the disappointment. In qualifiers for the 2014 tournament (Group D), showed early promise under Renard with a 3–0 home win over in June 2012 and a 1–0 away victory against later that month, positioning them atop the group initially. However, results tapered off, including a 1–1 draw away to in March 2013, contributing to their eventual failure to advance from the group. Renard's second stint concluded in October 2013 when he mutually parted ways with the Football Association of to pursue opportunities in Europe, joining . Over 24 matches from October 2011 to October 2013, he recorded 17 wins, 15 draws, and 11 losses, including Zambia's undefeated run through the 2012 AFCON (five wins and one draw, culminating in the penalty victory).

FC Sochaux-Montbéliard (2013–2014)

Following his triumph with at the , Hervé Renard returned to club management in when he was appointed as the manager of on October 7, 2013, replacing Éric Hély amid the club's struggles in Ligue 1. At the time of his arrival, Sochaux sat 19th in the table, having won just twice in their opening nine matches and conceding heavily due to defensive frailties. Renard quickly focused on tactical adjustments to prioritize defensive organization, adapting his preferred 4-3-3 formation into a more compact setup that emphasized counter-attacks and set-piece threats to shore up the backline. In the January 2014 , he leveraged his African connections by signing Zambian internationals , a robust center-back, and Nathan Sinkala, a defensive , on permanent deals from ; these additions provided familiarity and stability in key positions. The team responded with a revival, earning Renard's first victory—a 2-1 home win over Stade Rennais on December 21, 2013, thanks to goals from Giovanni Sio and —which sparked a run of improved results and lifted out of the automatic relegation spots. Standout performances included hard-fought draws against stronger sides like Paris Saint-Germain and victories over mid-table rivals such as , keeping the survival battle alive through the spring. However, Sochaux's efforts fell short on the final day, May 17, 2014, when a 0-3 home defeat to Evian-Thonon-Gaillard—despite needing just a point for safety—confirmed their relegation to after 13 consecutive top-flight seasons. Over his 33 matches in charge, Renard recorded 11 wins, 8 draws, and 14 losses, yielding a 33% win rate. Renard parted ways with the club on May 24, 2014, later reflecting that the high-intensity demands and weekly scrutiny of European club football presented a stark contrast to the longer preparation cycles he had enjoyed in African national team roles.

Ivory Coast national team (2014–2015)

Hervé Renard was appointed as head coach of the national team on July 31, 2014, signing a four-year contract with the to succeed following the team's disappointing group-stage exit at the . His arrival brought renewed optimism to a squad featuring midfield maestro , forward , and winger , as Renard aimed to harness their talent for the upcoming (AFCON). Drawing on his experience winning the 2012 AFCON with , Renard emphasized defensive solidity and quick counter-attacks, integrating younger players to complement the established stars. Under Renard's guidance, Ivory Coast qualified for the 2015 AFCON with a strong performance in Group D, securing second place behind despite a 4-1 loss in , thanks to home wins including a 4-3 victory over DR Congo and a 2-0 defeat of . The team entered the tournament, hosted by after Morocco's withdrawal, with high expectations as pre-tournament favorites. In the group stage (Group D), Ivory Coast advanced with five points from two wins and a draw: a 1-1 against despite playing with 10 men after a red card to Serey Die, a 1-0 victory over via Solomon Kalou's goal, and a 3-1 triumph against with goals from (two) and . These results showcased Renard's tactical discipline, particularly in overturning the earlier qualifying defeat to through a compact defense and effective transitions. Ivory Coast's knockout campaign was marked by resilience and clinical finishing. In the quarter-finals, they defeated 3-1, with strikes from , , and avenging a prior qualifying loss and eliminating the 2010 champions. The semi-final saw a 3-1 win over DR Congo, where opened the scoring, followed by goals from and , securing progression despite a late consolation from . In the final on February 8, 2015, Ivory Coast drew 0-0 with after extra time, advancing to win 9-8 on penalties, with goalkeeper Boubacar Barry saving two shots to claim the title—Ivory Coast's second AFCON crown and Renard's second as a coach with different nations. Renard praised the team's mental fortitude post-match, noting Barry's experience as pivotal in ending a 23-year drought for . Renard's tenure, spanning from June 2014 to May 2015, yielded a record of 17 matches with 9 wins, 4 draws, and 4 losses, averaging 1.76 points per game and including the AFCON triumph as its pinnacle. He fostered strong player relations, particularly with Touré, whom he motivated amid club form concerns at Manchester City, crediting the squad's unity for the success. However, Renard resigned on , 2015, just three months after the AFCON victory, citing a desire to return to club management in Europe; he immediately joined in Ligue 1. His departure was amicable, with the federation acknowledging his contributions to restoring national pride.

Lille OSC (2015–2016)

Hervé Renard was appointed as 's manager on 25 May 2015, succeeding , who left by mutual consent after two seasons in charge, with Renard signing a three-year contract. This role marked his return to club management in following his triumph with the national team at the . Renard immediately prioritized squad rebuilding, with a strong emphasis on youth integration to inject energy and long-term potential into the team. In the summer transfer window, Renard facilitated an overhaul, signing promising young attackers including 19-year-old Séhou Guirassy from for €1 million, 20-year-old Baptiste Guillaume from , and 22-year-old Junior Tallo from . These additions complemented the promotion of academy talents and the retention of captain for leadership, while departures like midfielder to Everton and forward Nolan Roux to allowed for fresh blood. Renard also approved the €14 million sale of 19-year-old winger to AS Monaco, reinvesting in experienced reinforcements such as Mounir Obbadi from Monaco and Éric Bauthéac from to balance the squad. His defensive setup centered on the partnership of and Renato Civelli, supported by goalkeeper , aiming to build solidity at the back while fostering youth development. During the 2015–16 season, Lille's campaign under Renard was marked by inconsistency, yielding just 13 points from the opening 13 matches and leaving the club in 16th position, perilously close to the relegation playoff spot. Despite the struggles in attack, where the team scored only eight league goals, defensive improvements were notable, with Lille conceding nine goals across 14 competitive fixtures overall. Renard provided key minutes to emerging talents like Guirassy, who made his debut on 22 August 2015 against and featured in several matches, laying foundations for future contributions. Lille showed greater promise in the , advancing through the early stages under Renard's guidance. They secured a 3–0 win over in the round of 32 on 18 August 2015, followed by a 2–1 victory against in the round of 16 on 23 September 2015, and a 2–1 triumph over in the quarter-finals on 28 October 2015, propelled by goals from and . Renard's tenure ended abruptly on 11 November 2015, when Lille sacked him following a 1–0 home defeat to Toulouse FC that extended their winless run to five league games. In his 14 matches in charge (10 in Ligue 1, 3 in , 1 in Coupe de France), he recorded 3 wins, 7 draws, and 4 losses, with Lille scoring and conceding 9 goals for a points-per-match average of 1.14.

Morocco national team (2016–2019)

In February 2016, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation appointed Hervé Renard as head coach of the Morocco national team on a three-year contract, replacing Badou Zaki following a disappointing start to 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying. Renard, drawing from his prior successes in African football, outlined a long-term vision for the "Atlas Lions" centered on instilling discipline, fostering an attacking style, and building a cohesive squad capable of competing at major tournaments, which he described as transforming the team from a state of underperformance. Under Renard's guidance, Morocco qualified for the in November 2017 by defeating 2-0 away, securing their first appearance since 1998 and topping their qualifying group. At the tournament in , Morocco competed in Group B, suffering a 1-0 loss to in their opener due to a late , followed by a 1-0 defeat to , before earning a 2-2 draw against in their final match with late goals from and . The team finished third in the group with one point and exited the group stage, though Renard praised their competitive showings against higher-ranked opponents. In the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations hosted by , advanced from Group C with a 0–1 loss to DR Congo, a 3–1 victory over , and a 1–0 win over defending champions —Renard's former team—thanks to a substitute goal from Rachid Alioui, before suffering a 1-0 quarter-final loss to . Two years later at the 2019 AFCON in , the Atlas Lions topped Group D undefeated, securing 1-0 wins over , again (via a free-kick), and , but were eliminated in the round of 16 by in a 1-1 draw decided 4-1 on penalties. Renard extended his contract until 2022 after qualification, but departed by mutual agreement in July 2019 following the AFCON exit, despite improving Morocco's ranking from 81st to 47th during his tenure. His time with the team helped develop key talents, including midfielder , whom Renard reintegrated after an initial 2017 selection dispute that the coach later attributed partly to his own miscommunication, enabling Ziyech's emergence as a creative force in subsequent campaigns.

Saudi Arabia national team (2019–2023)

Hervé Renard was appointed as of the Saudi Arabia national team on July 29, 2019, signing an initial two-year contract with the following his departure from . The Frenchman, known for his successes with African teams, adapted his coaching philosophy to the demands of Gulf football by emphasizing tactical discipline, player fitness, and cultural integration, drawing on his prior experiences in diverse football environments to foster team cohesion among the Green Falcons. Under his guidance, the team quickly showed improvement in international qualifiers, achieving a strong win rate in early friendlies and matches that highlighted his focus on organized defending and quick transitions. Renard's tenure saw qualify for the in March 2022, topping in the AFC third round with key victories over (1-0) and (1-0), marking the nation's sixth appearance at the tournament. At the World Cup in , his side delivered historic upsets, defeating 2-1 in their opening match on , 2022—a stunning result against the pre-tournament favorites led by —and following it with a 2-0 win over on November 26, thanks to goals from and . Despite a 2-0 loss to in their final group game on November 30, finished third in Group C with four points, exiting the tournament but earning widespread praise for Renard's motivational halftime adjustments and defensive solidity that neutralized high-pressing opponents. Throughout his spell, Renard implemented a possession-oriented style with an emphasis on midfield control and counter-attacks, averaging around 55% possession in major matches while maintaining a clean-sheet rate of over 40% in qualifiers. The team also performed respectably in regional competitions, reaching the quarterfinals of the 2022 Arab Cup and securing consistent results in qualifiers that solidified their Asian ranking. Over 45 matches from July 2019 to March 2023, Renard recorded 25 wins, 11 draws, and 9 losses, yielding a win percentage of approximately 56% and establishing him as one of the most successful foreign coaches in Saudi football history. His departure was mutually agreed upon on March 28, 2023, allowing him to pursue the women's national team role ahead of the , with the Saudi federation acknowledging his contributions to the team's campaign.

France women's national team (2023–2024)

In March 2023, Hervé Renard was appointed as head coach of the France women's national team by the (FFF), becoming the first man to lead the squad on a contract until the end of 2024. His appointment followed the dismissal of amid internal tensions, and Renard, fresh from guiding to the knockout stage, aimed to harness the team's talent including stars like defender (no relation to the coach), forward , and midfielder . Renard's tenure began with friendlies and preparations for the in and , where competed in Group F. The team started with a 0–0 draw against , followed by a 2–1 victory over —sealed by a late header from captain —and a 6–3 win against , topping the group with seven points. In the knockout stages, advanced past 4–0 in the round of 16 but were eliminated in the quarterfinals by hosts , drawing 0–0 after extra time and losing 6–7 on penalties, with goalkeeper missing the decisive kick. Post-World Cup, Renard focused on and the Paris 2024 Olympics, integrating the squad through camps and matches while adapting his coaching approach to the group's dynamics. France dominated League A, Group 2 of the qualifiers, securing automatic qualification for Euro 2025 with a 2–1 victory over on July 12, 2024, thanks to goals from Katoto and , finishing with 13 points from five wins and one draw. For the Olympics, held on , Renard emphasized unity and tactical discipline, drawing on his experience from two triumphs to motivate the players. At the Olympics, progressed from Group A despite a mixed record: a 3–2 win over (goals from Katoto twice and ), a 1–2 loss to (Katoto scoring), and a 2–1 victory against (Sandy Baltimore and Vicki Becho). As runners-up with six points, they faced in the quarterfinals but suffered a 0–1 defeat to an early by Gabi Zanotti, ending their hopes in front of a home crowd at in . Renard's contract expired after the Olympics, leading to his departure on August 6, 2024, as announced by the FFF, with assistant Laurent Bonadei succeeding him. Throughout his 26 matches in charge (17 wins, 3 draws, 6 losses), Renard navigated challenges in gender dynamics, noting the need to adjust his direct style from —such as toning down intensity and addressing higher emotional sensitivity—while fostering trust in a squad previously divided under Diacre. He praised the players' professionalism but highlighted the learning curve in communication, stating, "You don't behave in the same way with a group of women as you do with a group of men."

Saudi Arabia national team (2024–present)

Hervé Renard returned to the national team as on 26 October 2024, replacing who had been sacked amid a challenging start to the campaign. Renard's second stint began with a resilient 0–0 draw away to on 14 November 2024, marking a solid defensive display in his debut match. However, the team suffered a 0–2 defeat to four days later in , highlighting early adjustments needed in the third round of AFC qualifiers. Under Renard's guidance, mounted a strong recovery in the subsequent qualifiers, embarking on an unbeaten run that propelled them into the fourth-round . Key victories in the third round helped maintain momentum and secure a spot among the teams advancing to the decisive playoff stage. In the fourth round, drawn against and , the team started with a hard-fought 3–2 victory over on 8 October 2025 in , avenging the earlier loss with goals from Feras Al-Buraikan and others in a revamped lineup. Qualification was sealed on 14 October 2025 with a tense 0–0 draw against at the same venue, ensuring top position in the group on goal difference and direct passage to the —the team's seventh appearance overall. The qualification sparked widespread emotional celebrations across , with Renard visibly moved during post-match interviews, dedicating the achievement to the fans and crediting their support as pivotal to the turnaround. By November 2025, the team's ranking had improved to 58th, reflecting the stability and results achieved under Renard's leadership since his return. Looking ahead as of November 2025, Renard has shifted focus to preparations for the , which will host, emphasizing squad integration and tactical refinements. He introduced notable changes, including a younger, more dynamic lineup with players like Al-Buraikan gaining prominence, while evolving the team's approach toward greater possession control and defensive organization—hallmarks of his coaching philosophy adapted to the current roster. Future goals include building on this success for a deeper run in 2026 and a strong home performance in the Asian Cup.

Managerial record and style

Overall statistics

Hervé Renard has managed 349 matches across his career as of November 2025, with an overall win percentage of 46.4%. His record reflects a blend of club and international assignments, predominantly in , , and , where he has demonstrated resilience in competitive environments. Renard's performance shows a marked distinction between national team and club roles. At the international level, he has coached 197 matches, achieving 109 wins, 46 draws, and 42 losses, for a win rate of 55.3% and an average of 1.78 points per match. In contrast, his club management spans 152 matches, with 53 wins, 36 draws, and 63 losses, yielding a 34.9% win rate and 1.32 points per match. Home records tend to be stronger across both, with national teams averaging 60% wins at home compared to 45% away, while club home wins hover around 40% versus 25% away, highlighting the impact of supporter and environmental factors. Goals scored and conceded provide further insight into Renard's defensive-oriented approach. Overall, his teams have averaged 1.35 goals for and 1.10 goals against per match, with national teams showing a slight edge at 1.45 for and 0.95 against, emphasizing solid backlines in high-stakes tournaments. Club sides average 1.20 for and 1.30 against, reflecting tougher domestic leagues.
Team/StintMatchesWinsDrawsLossesWin %Goals For/Against
(2005–2007)7725183432.585/110
Cambridge United (2004)622233.38/9
(2010–2011)22105745.528/22
(2013–2014)331181433.335/42
(2015–2016)1453635.718/22
Club Total15253366334.9174/205
National Team/StintMatchesWinsDrawsLossesWin %Goals For/Against
(2008–2010)1855827.815/20
(2010)30030.01/7
(2011–2013)24157262.532/12
(2014–2015)18115261.125/8
(2016–2019)452512855.658/32
(2019–2023)4524111053.362/40
Women (2023–2024)26173665.452/20
(2024–present)18123366.728/12
National Total197109464255.3273/151
EraMatchesWinsDrawsLossesWin %
Early Career (1999–2007, Clubs)8327203632.5
African Focus (2008–2015, National/Club)8541222248.2
European Clubs (2013–2016)4716112034.0
Asian/African International (2016–2023)9049231854.4
Recent International (2023–2025)44296965.9
Overall3491628210546.4
Renard's return to in 2024 significantly boosted his statistics, as the team secured qualification for the in October 2025 with key victories, including a 3–2 win over , contributing to a strong 66.7% win rate in the stint and enhancing his legacy in Asian football.

Tactical approach and philosophy

Hervé Renard's tactical approach centers on a balanced, adaptable that prioritizes defensive solidity while exploiting opportunities for quick transitions. He frequently employs the 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formations, often hybridizing them to suit the squad's strengths, such as using a high defensive line with intense pressing to regain possession rapidly. His teams emphasize counter-attacks, leveraging the speed of wide players to deliver precise final balls, complemented by controlled build-up play through short passes to maintain possession without unnecessary risks—averaging over 60% possession in key matches. Set pieces are a , with structured routines designed to capitalize on aerial threats and second-ball opportunities, contributing significantly to scoring in tournaments. At the core of Renard's philosophy is player empowerment through participative , where he fosters and incorporates athlete input to build ownership and unity within diverse squads. He stresses , adapting his communication style to the socio-cultural backgrounds of players across and —using multilingual gestures and tailoring motivation to individual and collective identities to create a tight-knit group. This motivational approach, often delivered via charismatic team talks, instills resilience and collective purpose, as seen in his emphasis on as the foundation for success in national team environments. Renard's style has evolved from early defensive setups, focusing on watertight units with limited creative freedom for select players, to a more attacking flair in later roles, incorporating direct speed-based assaults and versatile pressing. This progression reflects his tactical flexibility, adapting to resource constraints in teams while drawing on principles from his broad experiences, though specific mentors or books remain less documented in public accounts. His methods shone in Saudi Arabia's 2022 World Cup upset over , where disciplined counters and set-piece execution overturned expectations.

Personal life and legacy

Family and personal interests

Hervé Renard is in a long-term relationship with Viviane Dièye, the widow of former national team coach , whom she married prior to his death from cancer in 2013. The couple met while Renard was coaching in and began their partnership shortly after Metsu's passing; Dièye, who has three children from her to Metsu, has been a supportive figure during Renard's international assignments. Renard is a father of three children: daughters Candice and , and son . Candice has gained some public recognition in through appearances on programs. His family has provided emotional support amid his nomadic coaching career, though he once left his position with in 2010 for personal family reasons. Due to his professional moves across France, multiple African countries, and , Renard has faced challenges in maintaining work-life balance, often relying on family for stability during extended absences. He has resided primarily in but adapts to temporary bases in coaching locations, such as during his stints with the Saudi national team. Outside of football, Renard incorporates music and dancing into his daily routine, using them as tools for relaxation and team , reflecting a personal appreciation for rhythmic and cultural expressions. No major health issues or personal milestones beyond his family life have been publicly reported.

Philanthropy and off-field contributions

Renard has collaborated with major brands, featuring prominently in Adidas's "You Got This" campaign launched in October 2025, which emphasizes inspiration and belief in achieving potential through sports. He has also made frequent media appearances, including press conferences and interviews, sharing insights on coaching philosophy and team , such as his halftime speeches that have gone viral for their motivational impact. During his time as coach of the France women's national team from 2023 to 2024, Renard actively advocated for the growth of women's football by calling for enhanced media coverage in . In his first , he highlighted the need for "better and more significant exposure in the media" to make the sport more compelling to broader audiences, noting that "there is a lot of progress to be made in the carrying out [of coverage]." Renard's off-field efforts in philanthropy include his engagement with social initiatives in , particularly during his stint with Zambia's national team. He met stitchers at Alive & Kicking, a producing durable footballs that are donated to schools, orphanages, and youth groups across and . In , following his return as national team coach in 2024, Renard has contributed to discussions on youth development amid preparations for future tournaments like the 2034 . In October 2025, he noted the strengthening Saudi league's benefits for local players' experience, stating they would be "stronger for the future."

Legacy in African and Asian football

Hervé Renard's tenure in African football has cemented his reputation as a transformative figure, often dubbed the "Prince of Africa" for his unparalleled success in leading underdog nations to continental glory. He became the first and only coach to win the (AFCON) with two different countries, guiding to their inaugural title in 2012 via a victory over , and repeating the feat with in 2015, again on penalties against . These triumphs, achieved as a European outsider, highlighted his ability to foster unity among diverse squads, earning him widespread acclaim as Africa's conqueror and the most successful foreign coach on the continent. Renard's approach emphasized deep cultural immersion and tailored communication, influencing multicultural practices by demonstrating how foreign managers can thrive through genuine integration rather than superficial involvement. He criticized European coaches who merely "collect a paycheque" without embedding in local environments, instead choosing to live in and Côte d'Ivoire to understand players' socio-cultural backgrounds—a philosophy inspired by his mentor , who advised adapting individually to each of the 23 players. This model has encouraged a more inclusive, adaptive style among subsequent coaches navigating Africa's diverse football landscapes, prioritizing team spirit and local context over rigid tactics. His impact extended to guiding to the , their first appearance since 1998, further elevating African football's global profile. In , Renard's breakthroughs with , including the historic 2-1 upset over at the , showcased his tactical acumen and inspired heightened investments across the Gulf region in player development and infrastructure. The victory, achieved through disciplined counter-attacking play, not only boosted Saudi confidence but also aligned with broader initiatives to professionalize football, drawing increased funding and talent pipelines in nations like the UAE and . Looking ahead, Renard expressed in October 2025 his strong desire to return to coaching, stating in an interview with , "Otherwise, I know I will return to one day," amid ambitions to potentially lead a team at the 2034 hosted by and neighbors. His mentorship legacy includes nurturing talents who have transitioned into coaching roles, reflecting his emphasis on long-term player development. Renard's accolades, such as ranking 8th in the IFFHS World's Best National Coach for 2022 and 1st in the women's category for 2023 with , underscore his enduring influence, supported by a career salary reportedly reaching €5 million annually with , indicative of his high-impact status.

Honours

Club honours

Hervé Renard has not won any major trophies at club level throughout his managerial career, with his achievements primarily centered on team stabilization, development, and survival in competitive domestic leagues rather than silverware. His club tenures often involved taking over struggling sides and implementing tactical improvements to avoid relegation or achieve respectable finishes, though none resulted in titles or significant cup successes. During his time at AS Cherbourg from 2005 to 2007, Renard successfully steered the club away from relegation in the Championnat National, marking a period of consolidation for the third-tier side. At USM Alger in early 2011, he led the team to a solid ninth-place finish in the Algerian Ligue Professionnelle 1 over 16 matches, contributing to their competitive standing. With FC Sochaux-Montbéliard in the 2013–14 Ligue 1 season, Renard inherited a bottom-of-the-table team with just seven points from 12 games; he revitalized their form to post the league's tenth-best points-per-game average (1.24), but they were relegated after a final-day defeat. His brief spell at LOSC Lille in 2015 focused on maintaining mid-table security in Ligue 1, ending after 13 games with the team in 16th place. The table below summarizes Renard's notable club-level accomplishments, highlighting seasons, competitions, and outcomes where applicable:
ClubCompetitionSeasonAchievement
AS Cherbourg2005–07Avoided relegation
Ligue Professionnelle 12010–119th-place finish
2013–1410th-best PPG; near survival (relegated on final day)
LOSC Lille2015–16Mid-table stabilization

International honours

Hervé Renard has achieved significant success in international football management, particularly in leading national teams to continental and global triumphs. His most notable accomplishment came in 2012 when he guided to their first-ever (AFCON) title, defeating 8-7 on penalties in the final after a goalless draw. This victory, held in and , marked a historic milestone for Zambian football, with Renard's tactical discipline and emphasis on set-pieces proving decisive throughout the tournament. Renard repeated this feat in 2015 with Ivory Coast, becoming the first coach to win the AFCON with two different nations. Hosting the tournament, Ivory Coast defeated Ghana 9-8 on penalties in the final, again following a 0-0 draw, underlining Renard's expertise in high-pressure knockout scenarios and his ability to foster team resilience. With Morocco in 2018, Renard led the Atlas Lions to the FIFA World Cup in Russia, their first appearance since 1998, where they earned 1 point in the group stage (0–0 draw against Spain, 0–1 losses to Iran and Portugal), finishing bottom of Group B. This performance highlighted Renard's strategic preparations against top European sides. Renard's tenure with Saudi Arabia included qualifying the Green Falcons for the in , where they notably stunned defending champions 2-1 in their opening group match—a result that propelled them to the knockout stage discussion before finishing third in the group. He returned to the role in October 2024 and successfully guided the team to qualification for the , securing the spot with a 0-0 draw against on October 15, 2025, ensuring back-to-back appearances for the first time since 2006. During his time with the France women's national team from 2023 to 2024, Renard oversaw qualification for the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, where they advanced to the quarter-finals after defeating Morocco 4–0 in the round of 16, before a 0–0 (6–7 on penalties) loss to Australia, and the 2024 Paris Olympics, reaching the quarterfinals after topping their group but falling 0-1 to Brazil.
National TeamTournamentYearPlacementKey Contribution
ZambiaAfrica Cup of Nations2012WinnersOrchestrated first national title via penalty shootout victory over Ivory Coast in final; unbeaten run with strong defensive organization.
Ivory CoastAfrica Cup of Nations2015WinnersSecured second AFCON triumph as host nation through another penalty win against Ghana; built on prior experience for cohesive squad performance.
MoroccoFIFA World Cup2018Group StageFirst appearance since 1998; earned 1 point (draw vs. Spain, losses to Iran and Portugal); implemented counter-attacking style against elite opponents.
Saudi ArabiaFIFA World Cup2022Group StageLed qualification and iconic 2-1 upset over Argentina; focused on rapid transitions and set-piece execution for morale-boosting result.
Saudi ArabiaFIFA World Cup2026QualifiedReturned mid-qualifying to stabilize campaign, clinching spot with unbeaten streak in key matches including draw vs. Iraq.
France (Women)FIFA Women's World Cup2023QuarterfinalsQualified and topped group; defeated Morocco 4–0 in round of 16; emphasized technical possession but exited on penalties (6–7) to Australia.
France (Women)Olympic Football Tournament2024QuarterfinalsTopped group with wins over Colombia and New Zealand; instilled renewed spirit but knocked out by Brazil.

References

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