Laurent Banide has taken over the coaching reins of Qatar Stars League side Al Kharaitiyat.

The Frenchman replaces Tunisian Lotfi Benzarti, who parted ways with the club after the ninth round.

Banide coached Umm Salal in the 2007-08 season and helped them to the 2008 Emir’s Cup title. He later gave way to compatriot Gerard Gili, who is back at Umm Salal.

Forty three-year-old Banide will be in charge of Kharaitiyat for the next six months, the club confirmed.

Khariatiyat are currently struggling in the 11th position.

Meanwhile, Iranian Mohammed Rezaei, who left former League champions Al Gharafa, is expected to join Kharaitiyat.