Former Barea head coach, Romuald Félix Rakotondrabe, is set to join the Sudanese club Al-Merrikh SC. The contract is for one year, with an option to renew.
The coach, affectionately known as “Rôrô,” officially announced yesterday at the Barea Stadium in Mahamasina that he has signed a one-year renewable contract with the Sudanese side. His departure date remains pending, contingent on the finalization of administrative paperwork. The coach, who led the team to a silver medal at the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), a bronze medal in a previous CHAN, and a gold medal at the 2023 Indian Ocean Island Games, will take charge of the U23 and reserve teams of the club, which has been competing in the Rwanda Premier League in recent years.
“I had productive discussions with the club’s management; the position and responsibilities suit me well. Since I am not yet familiar with the country, the team, or the players, it is better to start by familiarizing myself with the reserve squad,” the Malagasy technician stated modestly.
Regarding his mission, Rôrô aims to turn the reserve team into a true talent pool for the elite squad. “We will strive to prepare players to bolster the first team. It will be a brand new adventure in my career to lead a group of professional players of different nationalities,” he added. He also noted that, unlike his previous failed deal with the Tanzanian club Young Africans SC in 2025, he is fully determined this time.
Furthermore, the former Barea coach revealed that he has yet to receive his salary from the Malagasy Football Federation since November 2024, including payments related to the 2025 CHAN, a matter he is currently discussing with the federation’s executive committee.
Captured & Published at: 2026-08-08 05:54:20 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/08/football-transfert-le-coach-roro-tente.html