Rabat – OGC Nice’s dynamic midfielder Sofiane Diop delved into various facets of his international journey, shedding light on his decision to represent Morocco, his first experience with the national team, and his relationship with national coach Walid Regragui.
In a candid conversation yesterday with the Club des 5, the 23-year-old midfielder notably revealed the intricacies of his association with Coach Walid Regragui.
Diop began by highlighting the welcoming atmosphere Regragui has created within the national team. “Like every player who has joined the squad before, Walid welcomed me warmly,” he said. “We had extensive discussions. He’s a coach who values communication and enjoys understanding his players’ sentiments.”
Dip then spoke of the team’s footballing synergy, stating: “We speak the same language on the pitch. When I didn’t understand something, I would ask, and he would explain.”
Reflecting on his initial call-up to the national team, the Moroccan international expressed gratitude for the warm reception from both the staff and players.
“Entering a squad with considerable depth, my sole desire was to showcase my abilities on the field,” he emphasized.
Diop, who was part of the 55-player preliminary list for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, shared insights into Coach Regragui’s approach.
“He tested me in various positions during training – right, left, even in the number 8 role. It provides him with multiple options,” he explained.
“We all have diverse profiles; on the right, there’s Hakim Ziyech, on the left, Abde, in the midfield, Harit, Ounahi, Amrabat. We all bring different characteristics, and he (Regragui) is content with that.”
Despite being part of the initial 55-man squad, a fracture to his right third metatarsal sustained during a match against Toulouse (1-0) led to Diop’s exclusion from the final 27-player roster for the upcoming continental tournament.
