With Elias Mokwena's club manager said to be facing the sack, Esperance de Tunis will reportedly need to pay massive compensation to proceed with the dismissal.
Esperance have begun the 2024/25 Tunisian Ligue Professionnelle 1 season in underwhelming fashion, having failed to win any of their past three league matches.
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On Sunday, the club suffered a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Esperance Sportive de Zarzis, a result that has only piled more pressure on manager Miguel Cardoso, whose side now sit in sixth place on the table, seven points adrift of the top of the standings after just five matches.
According to reports, the Portuguese boss' days are now numbered and the club's hierarchy is said to be seriously considering his dismissal, despite his contract only being set to expire in June 2026.
It is suggested that fans believe Cardoso is responsible for the team's downturn in performances and results, and there are now loud calls for him to be relieved of his duties before the start of the CAF Champions League group stage, which begins on 26 November.
With the 52-year-old remaining in the job for now, it is claimed the Tunisian giants will need to pay a lofty compensation fee if they are to get rid of the head coach.
According to WinWin, Esperance will need to pay up to €350 000 (about R6.6 million) should they wish to terminate Cardoso's contract.
Moreover, reports also suggest that the tactician was summoned to a meeting by club president Hamdi Al-Madb to explain to the executive the reasons behind the team's decline in performances.
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Cardoso was placed in charge in January 2024, and the former Celta Vigo coach has since guided Esperance to the final of the 2023/24 Champions League and qualification for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Last season, he also led his charges to the Tunisian top-flight title.
By Lukhanyo Mtuta
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