NABIL MAALOUL
Is discipline a key for your team?
Not only for my team, but for everyone. It is very important for every competitive team. We have players who come from everywhere, so discipline and rules apply. You want to have a manner of behaviour. My players are very good. We don’t have technical problems, the most important thing is to create an ambience and homogeneity among the players.
What is your coaching philosophy?
Let’s say that our team tries to impose its game and style. During the World Cup qualifiers we played 4-3-3 and at times we changed to 4-2-3-1. Our normal concept is 4-3-3, with players like Naim Sliti on the wings. You ask me for my philosophy, but I haven’t decided yet when it comes to the World Cup. That can change, it depends. We have England, Belgium and Panama in the group. Our tactical conception may evolve.
But you do want to have possession and play to your own strength?
Yes, we have very skilful players. We have good defenders, up front we have players who are agile and fast. In spite of playing Belgium and England, we have to try to impose our game and style. It is a chance for us, because England’s players all play in the Premier League, 80 per cent of Belgium’s players also play in that league. You don’t have to look too far to see their qualities.
How important is Youssef Msakni as a creative force for the team?
He is a player who can do everything! How can I put this? Let’s say that England have Harry Kane, Belgium have Eden Hazard and we simply have Msakni. He can dribble, provide assists and score goals. He is a true striker, who plays on the left channel. He has good moral qualities, a good savoir-faire and knows well how to lead the group.
What will be Tunisia’s ambitions at this World Cup?
We will try to play our game and impose ourselves, even though it’s a difficult group with England and Belgium in particular. We will try to go toe-to-toe and why not try and reach the second round?
Who are your strongest opponents: Belgium or England?
For me, it is Belgium. They were one of the favourites at the last European Championship. They will also be one of the favourites at this World Cup. In Roberto Martinez they have a great coach, who has addressed the ailments that they had in France. You have to pay attention to Belgium. They have two superb goalkeepers as well.
Tunisia begin against England. What are your memories from the 1998 encounter?
That was 20 years ago. English football has evolved much. The mentality is different and the game is different from back then. In the Premier League you have great coaches, like Guardiola, Mourinho and Arsene Wenger. All these coaches have changed English football and the mentality. That has also influenced the national team.
You have brought in Seifeddine Khaoui, Ellyes Skhiri and Mouez Hassen in from France. How will they improve your team?
They play at a high level. They have the game rhythm and the know-how. That is important for us. We may not have much European experience, but that won’t be a problem. When we play European countries we always play great games.