Algeria Football– The coach of the Moroccan national team, Walid Regragui, bluntly addressed the situation of striker Amine El Ouazzani, a young talent of Moroccan, French and Algerian origins, who could potentially choose to represent Algeria. During a press conference held on Tuesday, Regragui raised the possibility of seeing El Ouazzani, who has already distinguished himself with the young people of Morocco by winning the CAN U23, respond to requests from the Algerian Federation.
The question of El Ouazzani’s loyalty to the Moroccan selection was raised, especially after he was not selected by Regragui for the next two qualifying matches for CAN 2025 against Gabon and Lesotho. Despite his impressive club performances with Braga this season, where he scored seven goals, the young player was not retained, sparking speculation over his international future.
Walid Regragui, without minimizing the situation, recalled that places in the Moroccan team are not easily accessible and that it is essential for any player to deserve them. “Regarding players considering changing their sporting nationality, I have always been clear: those who wish to play for another country are free to do so. We are a great team and no longer have to run behind the players,” he firmly declared, giving a clear message to those who might hesitate between Morocco and another country.
The coach then added a personal touch by emphasizing the importance of patience and commitment to be part of his team: “We have been in the top 13 in the world for two years. The message is simple: if you want to play for Morocco, you have to be patient and wait your turn. With me, blackmail will never work. Morocco does not depend on a player or a coach. The country reached the World Cup semi-finals with players who really wanted to be there. » A clear and unequivocal message.
Regragui, who has led Morocco to an unprecedented level of global competition, knows how crucial it is to build a strong, motivated and committed team. For him, the Moroccan national team should not depend on the whims of a player, regardless of his individual value. This vision reflects the evolution of Moroccan football, now firmly anchored among the best African and world teams.
The case of Amine El Ouazzani is a typical example of the dilemmas faced by binational players. Attracted by Algeria but having already worn the colors of Morocco among young people, El Ouazzani is at the heart of a friendly but real competition between the two nations, which each seek to strengthen their squad with talents from the diaspora. Algeria, for its part, hopes to attract promising players to expand its ranks for international competitions.
Regragui’s message, however, highlights a new era for Moroccan football. Gone are the days when the country had to convince players to join its national team. Now Morocco is a popular choice, and only those who show a real desire to play there are considered. For Amine El Ouazzani, the ball is in his court: he will have to decide whether he wants to wait and invest in joining the Atlas Lions or seize an opportunity with Algeria. Regardless, the young striker’s decision will be closely scrutinized in the months to come.
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