Club Africain risk losing three key players as summer transfer window opens
Tunisia's newly crowned champions face a difficult intersaison as contract negotiations stall over three first-team regulars, threatening the squad depth needed for a return to the CAF Champions League.
Club Africain are at risk of losing three key first-team players during the summer transfer window, according to a report in La Presse de Tunisie on Wednesday, raising concerns about the depth of the squad that will represent Tunisia in next season's CAF Champions League.
The club won their 14th Tunisian league title in May — their first in eleven years — and the achievement secured an automatic place in the CAF Champions League 2026–2027. The prospect of losing pivotal members of that championship-winning group before the continental campaign begins has unsettled supporters and raised questions in the Tunisian football press.
Contract talks stalling
Defender Oussema Shili, 29, is among the players whose future remains unresolved. Negotiations between Shili and the club are continuing but have not yet produced an agreement, with the sticking point reported to be financial. The player had a standout season, establishing himself as one of the most consistent performers in the squad, and several clubs in Arab leagues are understood to be monitoring his situation. His agent and Club Africain's management are still in discussion.
Striker Firas Chaouat was central to the title run. He scored the club's first hat-trick of the season in a 3–0 victory over Étoile Sportive du Sahel in January and contributed decisive goals throughout the campaign.
La Presse names a third player also at risk of departure. Times of Tunis is seeking independent confirmation of that third name and of the specific contract details; the editor will verify before publication.
Continental stakes raise the pressure
The timing is awkward for coach Faouzi Benzarti, who guided the club to the title and is expected to remain in charge for a second consecutive season — a milestone in his coaching career. Benzarti has previously indicated his intention to continue, with the club's continental return a clear motivation.
Commentary in the Tunisian press has already flagged concerns about whether the current squad has sufficient quality for the demands of the CAF Champions League. Retaining the core of a title-winning side would ease that pressure; losing three of its key figures before a ball is kicked in Africa would compound it.
Club Africain have not issued an official statement on any of the three situations. Times of Tunis has contacted the club for comment.
This story will be updated as further details are confirmed.