Abdelhak Benchikha Returns to Coach Ittihad Tanger, Replacing Spanish Manager Pep Mel
T.E (Elbotola)
10 March 2026at16:20
Ittihad Tanger has decided to sign Algerian coach Abdelhak Benchikha, replacing Spanish manager José Mel, who will depart his position after failing to achieve the desired results.
Al-Botola learned from a special source that Benchikha signed his coaching contract with Ittihad Tanger moments ago. He has previously coached several national clubs, including Ittihad Tanger during the 2017/2018 football season.
Meanwhile, the same sources confirmed that the club will not terminate Pep Mel's contract, as he is expected to be assigned other duties within the team.
Ittihad Tanger currently sits in 12th place in the Botola Pro Inwi league with 13 points. This tally is considered by the club's fans to be below the aspirations and value of the team after the end of the first half of the season.
Who has Ittihad Tanger appointed as their new coach?
Ittihad Tanger has appointed Algerian coach Abdelhak Benchikha to lead the team. Benchikha previously coached the club during the 2017/2018 season and returns to replace the outgoing Spanish manager, José Mel, after a period of disappointing results in the league.
Why did Ittihad Tanger decide to change their head coach?
Ittihad Tanger decided to change their head coach due to the team's unsatisfactory performance in the Botola Pro Inwi league. The club currently sits in 12th place with 13 points, a tally considered below fan aspirations after the first half of the season.
What will happen to former Ittihad Tanger coach José Mel?
Former Ittihad Tanger coach José Mel will not be terminated from his contract with the club. Instead, he is expected to be assigned other duties within the team, despite being replaced as head coach due to the team's recent struggles.
