A coach who was previously linked with Mamelodi Sundowns has reportedly decided against making a return to Africa.
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Prior to appointing Miguel Cardoso as head coach, Sundowns were linked with a move for French tactician Patrice Carteron. The 54-year-old is well-versed in African football, having coached both Egyptian giants Al Ahly and Zamalek. The latter was his last stint within the CAF region, and he has since gone on to take up various challenges in the Middle East.
After leaving the White Knights, he joined Saudi Pro League side Al Ettifaq, then moved to Qatar to coach Umm Salal, before taking up his most recent post in Iran’s top flight with Sepahan. However, the Saint-Brieuc native is now currently without a job. The Yellow Storm of Asia missed out on the league title this past season, finishing eight points behind the champions.
The club have since parted ways with Carteron, and although he is now seeking new opportunities to lead a team, it does not appear that his next destination will be in Africa. Speaking on Sada El-Balad channel, Ismail Marzouk revealed that both Al Ahly and Zamalek had expressed interest in bringing the 2015 CAF Champions League-winning coach back to their respective clubs, but only made verbal proposals.
The Red Devils have since appointed Jose Riveiro, while their arch-rivals remain in search of a new head coach. Marzouk went on to reveal that while Carteron will not be returning to the North African clubs, he is, in fact, on the verge of rejoining one of his former sides—Umm Salal.
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It is understood that he was recently in Qatar to negotiate the final terms of his deal and is expected to lead the club in the 2025/26 season.
