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Players from Wydad Athletic Club have reportedly formally requested financial incentives from club president Hicham Aït Menna on April 7, shedding light on the internal tensions during a difficult stretch of the season.
According to trusted media, including Elbotola, the request was made during a direct meeting between the president and senior members of the squad, who spoke on behalf of the group ahead of a domestic league fixture. Players reiterated their desire for performance-based bonuses, aiming to boost morale as results continue to fall below expectations.
Aït Menna, however, pushed back on the demand. Wydad’s president reportedly told the squad to step up, reminding them that their first priority should be playing for the badge and showing some real commitment to the club, rather than just chasing an immediate payout.
The situation comes amid a broader crisis surrounding the Casablanca team. Recent performances have increased scrutiny on both the squad and management, with Wydad struggling for consistency following elimination from the Throne Cup, elimination from CAF Confederation Cup and a series of underwhelming league results, including a draw against Difaâ Hassani El Jadidi.
Fan pressure has also intensified. The club’s ultras group, the Winners, have publicly criticized the current leadership, accusing it of focusing on financial matters at the expense of sporting success.
The financial context just makes the situation worse. Despite earning significant revenue, reportedly around €9 million, from participation in the FIFA Club World Cup, Aït Menna has been cautious, prioritizing the need to protect the club’s budget and avoid spending on initiatives he does not fully support.
How the club handles this standoff between the players and management is going to be a real turning point. Everything’s on the line here: they either find some common ground to get back on track, or this deadlock is going to seriously tank Wydad’s momentum for the rest of the season.
Read also: Carteron Reveals Extent of Wydad’s Fitness Crisis Before First Match
