Benzarti, widely regarded as one of North Africa’s most decorated coaches, arrives with a formidable reputation and a wealth of experience spanning over four decades.
A Storied Career in North African Football
Often called the “dean of coaches,” Benzarti boasts an impressive trophy-laden résumé, including:
- 11 Tunisian League titles
- 1 CAF Champions League title (with Espérance de Tunis in 1994)
- 2 CAF Confederation Cups
- 2 Moroccan League titles
He previously managed the Libyan national team on two separate occasions and returns to Libyan football on the back of recent success, having just guided Club Africain to the Tunisian league title.
Mokwena Departs for Pyramids FC
Benzarti fills the vacancy left by Rulani Mokwena, whose seven-month tenure at Al Ittihad came to an end amid reported differences over transfer policy and long-term vision.
The 39-year-old South African has swiftly moved on, agreeing to become the new head coach of Egyptian club Pyramids FC ahead of the 2026/27 season. Mokwena takes charge of a side that recently won the 2024/25 CAF Champions League.
This high-profile appointment signals Al Ittihad’s ambition to challenge for domestic and continental success under one of the region’s most experienced tacticians. Welcome to Tripoli, Coach Benzarti!