Will Adel Amrouche Take Amavubi to the Next Level After Spittler?

On Monday, December 9, 2024, former Amavubi coach Trosten Frank Spittler took a flight back to Germany, stating that he was leaving for the holidays. However, what worried Rwandan football enthusiasts was that he had not been given a contract extension, leading to uncertainty about his future.

During his short tenure, Trosten Frank Spittler displayed remarkable tactical expertise and a clear vision for building a competitive team. Here’s what Amavubi could lose if he does not return.

Spittler implemented a solid system where every player understood their role, ensuring Amavubi played as a cohesive unit without relying on individual brilliance. His approach emphasized tactical discipline and teamwork.

He helped players understand their playing style, encouraged strong team chemistry, and ensured consistency in their tactical approach. This gave the team confidence and enabled them to defeat strong opponents.

Spittler’s Amavubi was known for an attacking style of play. He prioritized ball possession and quick counterattacks, which posed a challenge for their opponents. He also gave young players opportunities to develop and gain experience, injecting fresh energy into the squad.

His resilience was evident whenever his team suffered a loss, he made adjustments and returned stronger in the following match. Under his guidance, Amavubi achieved notable victories against powerhouse teams like South Africa and Nigeria, demonstrating the significant progress they had made.

Following Spittler’s controversial departure, FERWAFA appointed Algerian coach Adel Amrouche as his replacement. Amrouche is an experienced tactician who has managed teams such as Kenya, Libya, Botswana, and Tanzania.

On Sunday, March 2, 2025, the Rwanda Football Federation announced that Adel Amrouche would take over as the new head coach of Amavubi, assisted by Eric Nshimiyimana and German Coach Dr. Carolin Braun.

Amrouche, who hails from Algeria but holds Belgian nationality, has had a remarkable coaching journey, earning a reputation in African football. He is known for his preference for technical players, attacking through the flanks, and instilling discipline in his squads.

His primary task will be to lead the Rwandan national team in their quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Adel Amrouche takes charge of Amavubi at a crucial moment, as his predecessor Spittler left the team in a strong position in Group C, sitting at the top ahead of tough teams such as Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Benin, South Africa, and Nigeria.

His first major challenge will be the upcoming match between Rwanda and Nigeria on March 21, followed by a clash against Lesotho on March 25.

In Group C, Rwanda, South Africa, and Benin each have seven points, but Rwanda leads due to a +2 goal difference, while Benin and South Africa each have a +1 goal difference. Lesotho has five points, Nigeria has three, and Zimbabwe has two.

While every coach has a unique philosophy, the big question remains will Adel Amrouche continue the positive development that Trosten Frank Spittler had started?

For Rwandan football fans, this is a time to keep supporting Amavubi, as changes can bring either success or setbacks depending on how the new coach manages the team.

Coach Trosten Frank Spittler left Rwanda after elevating the country to a respected status in football

Adel Amrouche has a mountain to climb in leading Amavubi to the 2026 World Cup