Claude Makelele Nearing Appointment as DR Congo Coach

Former France international Claude Makelele is all set to be appointed as the new coach of DR Congo men’s national team, according to reports in the country.

DR Congo FA’s technical committee identified the former KAS Eupen coach as their main target to replace Florent Ibenge, who reports indicate that he has been relieved his duties after failing to guide the Leopards past  2019 Africa Cup of Nations last 16.

According to our sources, the search for a new coach had been ongoing since the team’s AFCON exit and the 47-year-old Makelele’s appointment is set to be confirmed imminently.

The new Leopards coach will be tasked with securing qualification for the next edition of the continental showpiece, slated to be held in Cameroon 2021.

Makelele, born in what was then Zaire, has vast experience from a playing career that saw him star for Real Madrid and France, while he was on the coaching staff at Paris Saint-Germain and Swansea too.

He won five major trophies during his time at Chelsea, including their first two Premier League titles under Jose Mourinho in 2005 and 2006.