Veteran winger opens up about Tunisia’s national team revival, challenges ahead of AFCON, and his commitment to helping a new generation grow.
DOHA, QATAR — After enduring a turbulent qualifying campaign, the Tunisian national football team is preparing for a fresh chapter at this year’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), and winger Naïm Sliti says he is more motivated than ever to play a leadership role in the team’s rebuild.
In an exclusive interview at Qatar University’s training pitch — where Sliti is currently in his debut season with Qatari side Al Shamal SC — the 32-year-old opened up about his journey back to the national team, the transformation within the squad, and his hopes for Tunisia’s future on the continental and global stages.
“The national team has always been a goal”
“It’s always a pleasure,” Sliti said with pride, reflecting on his return to the Carthage Eagles after injury setbacks and a brief spell without a club. “Even when I was injured and without a team, I always had in mind to come back fully and return to the national team. And thanks to God, I came back.”
Sliti, who made his debut for Tunisia in 2016, has long been a key figure in the squad and is now stepping into a more senior role as the team undergoes major changes.
“There have been many changes within the team — a new president, new management, a new coach. It’s a pleasure to be part of this project,” he said. “The coach relies on me a lot as a senior member of the team, not only for what happens on the pitch but also off it. Football isn’t just about playing — it’s about managing the group, keeping everyone united.”
From instability to momentum
Tunisia’s recent history has been marked by inconsistency, both in management and performance. But Sliti believes the national side has turned a corner and is on the right path.
“Lately, it has been very difficult,” he admitted. “But, thanks to God, we’ve moved forward in a positive direction. Now, it’s about maintaining that momentum and continuing to grow. I have a role to play, and if I am called up to the national team, I will always give 100 percent.”
His passion for representing Tunisia remains undiminished, even as the squad navigates a new era filled with uncertainty but also promise.
Realism and ambition ahead of AFCON
Having represented Tunisia in three previous Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, Sliti knows better than most the challenges of continental competition. And while he harbors dreams of lifting the trophy, he remains realistic about Tunisia’s chances.
“Tunisia is starting over with a new group, something fresh,” he said. “I think we shouldn’t start saying that we’re going to win — no, that wouldn’t be realistic. We’re building a beautiful project, and of course, when you go into a competition, you want to win every match, God willing.”
He added, “Winning the Africa Cup of Nations is a dream for everyone. It would truly be a dream for me to achieve it with my national team. Now, it’s a very, very difficult goal — but inshallah, why not?”
Sliti believes the team must take it one match at a time, focusing on performance and progress rather than lofty predictions. “Apart from the last AFCON, we have always performed at least at a decent level,” he noted. “That’s something to build on.”
A new generation and a leadership role
Now in the twilight of his career, Sliti is aware that he is part of a transitional phase for Tunisian football — one that involves nurturing young talent and creating a culture of resilience.
“As one of the senior players, I know that part of my responsibility is to support the younger generation,” he explained. “The group is evolving. We have talented players coming through, and it’s important to lead by example.”
He emphasized that football success is built on unity and discipline, especially in tournaments like AFCON where team spirit often trumps individual brilliance.
“We’re laying a foundation,” he said. “That’s what matters most now.”
Eyes on 2026 World Cup
Beyond AFCON, Sliti also has one eye on the long road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be held across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Tunisia has started its qualification campaign with promising wins over Liberia and Malawi, and Sliti remains hopeful of their chances.
“Of course, I hope we qualify for the World Cup,” he said. “It’s the biggest stage in football, and I believe we have what it takes. It’s a long journey, but we’ve started well. We have to stay focused, keep working hard, and take it game by game.”
The Carthage Eagles last appeared at the World Cup in Qatar in 2022, where they impressed with a shock win over defending champions France in the group stage, though they failed to advance. Sliti was part of that squad and sees the next tournament as an opportunity to go further.
Club life in Qatar and future plans
Now based in Qatar with Al Shamal SC, Sliti says he is enjoying his club football and is grateful for the support he’s received since recovering from injury.
“I feel good physically and mentally,” he said. “Playing in Qatar has been a great experience — the facilities, the people, everything has helped me get back to my best.”
As for the future, Sliti remains committed to contributing to both club and country for as long as he can. “As long as I’m fit and selected, I’ll always give my all,” he concluded.
Conclusion
With a mix of humility, experience, and passion, Naïm Sliti embodies the spirit of a Tunisia side in transition — hungry to rebuild, eager to compete, and dreaming of future glory. As the Africa Cup of Nations draws near, the veteran winger’s leadership will be vital in guiding the Carthage Eagles into a new era, one match at a time.
