22.05.2015 19:02 h

Renard steps down as Ivory Coast coach

Frenchman Herve Renard has stepped down as coach of his Africa Cup of Nations winners Ivory Coast, according to official sources on Friday.

The charismatic 46-year-old led the 'Elephants' to their first African title since 1992 in February, when they defeated Ghana on penalties, but is now hotly tipped to take over at Ligue 1 side Lille.

"I said to myself, that after the success at the CAN, it would be difficult to do better and I have to open myself up to other challenges," Renard told the press.

Renard had been at the helm of the Ivory Coast since August 2014 after signing a two year contract but that deal has now come to an end.