Marrakech – Walid Regragui, head coach of the Moroccan national team, spoke to reporters at a press conference this morning ahead of the Atlas Lions’ Friday night Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) clash against Mali.
Regarding captain Romain Saiss, who exited just 16 minutes into Morocco’s tournament opener against Comoros, Regragui explained that the defender experienced “a slight stretch” in his thigh and will miss tomorrow’s match.
The tactician also shot down social media rumors of Nayef Aguerd and Adam Masina injuries.
“Since the last match, Nayef has been training normally. There is no issue,” Regragui said. “Apart from Romain (Saiss), everything is going well.”
Saiss’ absence leaves an empty center-back spot in the Atlas Lions defense. Jawad El Yamiq, who came on for the injured captain against Comoros, is perhaps the likeliest to receive the starting nod tomorrow, but Regragui does not discount the youngest player on his squad: 19-year-old Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal.
The Rennes defender has burst onto the scene in Ligue 1 this season, quickly establishing himself as a mainstay in Habib Beye’s team, and earning an international debut in November.
In Regragui’s eyes, Ait Boudlal is the future, but he could also be the present.
“He has enormous talent. Many supporters don’t know it, but we’re certain we have a gem for the future, and why not the present as well,” Regragui said.
The Moroccan tactician says he will accompany the young center-back throughout his development, and that it remains primordial to not rush.
“The potential he has is enormous and we need to not burn him out. That means bringing him on in easier games, but also in difficult games to see what he has to offer,” Regragui explained. “If he’ll start tomorrow, we’ll see. But he’s someone I have a lot of hope in.”
With a chance to secure an early knockout stage ticket, the Atlas Lions will take on Mali tomorrow at 9 p.m. at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
