Zambia boss Renard set for Sochaux

Herve Renard has left his position as Zambia head coach to take up a position with Ligue 1 side Sochaux according to the Zambia FA.

Renard was in his second spell at the helm of the nation and led Zambia to a first African Cup of Nations title in 2012 with victory on penalties against Ivory Coast.

However, Zambia missed out on qualification for the 2014 FIFA World Cup after finishing second in Group D behind Ghana.

A statement from the Football Association of Zambia confirmed Renard’s exit and added he will now head to France.

“The Football Association of Zambia hereby announces the release of Herve Renard from the job of national coach of the Zambian National Football Team,” the statement read.

“The 2012 Nations Cup winning coach has been offered a wonderful opportunity at FC Sochaux in the top league in France. FAZ and Herve have consulted and it has been agreed not to stand in his way.

“It is a compliment for a coach working in Africa to be head-hunted by a top European club. It makes us proud to be able to take ownership of Herve’s rise as a successful international coach.

“FAZ wishes to thank Renard for his dedication to duty, hard work, proficiency and wish him well as he takes up his new coaching job.”

Sochaux have been without a manager since Eric Hely resigned from his position after the club failed to win any of their opening seven league games.

Omar Daf has been in temporary charge of Sochaux and the Ligue 1 club have yet to release an official statement regarding a permanent successor to Hely.

Renard’s former assistant Patrice Beaumelle will take charge of Zambia for their international friendly next week against Brazil.