CAN 2017: Wahbi Khazri to Miss Tunisia’s First Training Camp

Wahbi Khazri to Join Tunisia Late Ahead of 2017 Africa Cup of Nations

Tunisia will have to cope without Wahbi Khazri for the early stages of their training camp ahead of the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon. The talented attacking midfielder, who currently plays for Sunderland, will remain with his club as they approach a crucial period in the English Championship, according to his manager David Moyes.

Although Khazri is not always a regular starter at Sunderland, Moyes values the 25-year-old’s experience and versatility, particularly for the demanding fixtures at the end of December. The Scottish coach has confirmed that he will retain the former Bordeaux star until January 2, 2017, ensuring his availability for Sunderland during key matches before the January transfer window.

Khazri is then expected to join the Carthage Eagles immediately after, in time for the friendly against Uganda on January 4, which will take place at the historic El Menzah Stadium in Tunis. This preparatory match is part of Tunisia’s final build-up ahead of the continental tournament and will give head coach Henryk Kasperczak a last chance to fine-tune his squad and tactics before heading to Gabon.

Prior to the friendly, the Tunisian team will conduct part of its preparation in Spain, facing Basque and Catalan sides in a series of training matches scheduled for December. These friendlies are designed to provide players with high-intensity match experience and help integrate new talents into the squad. For Tunisia, these matches will also serve as an opportunity to assess team chemistry, test tactical options, and ensure players are match-ready for the challenges of the Africa Cup of Nations.

Tunisia has been drawn into Group B, alongside formidable opponents Senegal, Algeria, and Zimbabwe. The group promises intense competition, with both North and West African powerhouses featuring key talents who could make the difference in tight matches. For Tunisia, having Khazri available, even if only from January 2 onward, will be crucial in providing creativity and attacking flair to complement players such as Wahbi Khazri’s club teammates and local league stars.

The midfielder’s delayed arrival is a compromise between club and country commitments, reflecting a common challenge in international football. Balancing domestic league responsibilities with national team obligations often requires careful negotiation, particularly during periods when leagues remain in full swing while international tournaments approach. For Tunisia, Kasperczak will need to adjust training sessions and tactical plans accordingly, ensuring that the squad can maintain momentum and cohesion despite Khazri’s temporary absence.

While Khazri may miss part of the early camp, his presence in the final preparations and friendly against Uganda will allow him to quickly integrate into the squad and provide the leadership and skill expected of one of Tunisia’s top players. Fans will be eager to see the Sunderland midfielder in action, especially given his reputation for decisive goals, set-piece ability, and creative vision in the attacking third.

As the countdown to the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations continues, Tunisia’s management remains confident that Khazri’s late arrival will not disrupt preparations and could, in fact, provide the squad with a fresh boost as they head into the tournament. With Group B set to test their mettle, every player, including Khazri, will play a vital role in the Carthage Eagles’ bid to advance to the knockout stages in Gabon.