From Real Madrid's staff to an African giant: Lopetegui's former assistant takes charge of Espérance

Spanish coach Pablo Franco Martín has officially been appointed the new head coach of Espérance, one of Africa's most decorated clubs. The 46-year-old coach has signed a contract with the Tunisian giants until June 30, 2028.

Franco Martín joins Espérance after a successful season in Morocco. Last campaign, he was in charge of Maghreb de Fès and sensationally led the team to the Botola Pro title — the club won the national championship for the first time in 41 years.

At the same time, the Spaniard's résumé includes experience at the highest level. In the 2018/19 season, Franco Martín was part of Real Madrid's coaching staff, serving as Julen Lopetegui's assistant. The coach later worked in Georgia, Kuwait, South Africa and Saudi Arabia.

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It is worth noting that Espérance is a true giant of African football. The club is one of the continent's most decorated sides, with 34 Tunisian league titles, 16 national cups and four CAF Champions League triumphs — in 1994, 2011, 2018 and 2019. The team has also won the CAF Cup Winners' Cup, the CAF Confederation Cup and the CAF Super Cup.