Join on WhatsApp
Join on Telegram
Rabat – Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has defended his decision to leave out several players from the U‑20 World Cup‑winning squad, insisting that selections are based on performance and not sentiment.
Speaking at Tuesday’s press conference, Ouahbi said, “I don’t give gifts. Decisions are made without emotion, only with objectivity.” He explained that the absence of some young talents was not about experience but about what they showed daily in training and matches.
Ouahbi added that while some young players were called up, they were not at their best form. “They are still developing. We must remain cold‑headed and choose what is best for the team, based on style of play and physical condition.”
The coach reminded reporters that Morocco also has a U‑23 squad, and only a few players make the direct jump from U‑20 to the senior team.
He stressed that the younger generation will continue to get opportunities, but not all at once. “We work with both groups, the senior team and the U‑23s. Of course, they will have other chances to join us.”
Ouahbi also addressed the growing expectations among Moroccan fans. He acknowledged the passion of supporters who ask him to “bring the World Cup home,” but urged realism.
“We will do everything possible to make Moroccans proud, but we cannot give false promises. Our goal is to compete with ambition while staying realistic.”
He stressed that more than 40 million Moroccans want to see their team succeed, and that the players share this responsibility.
“Confidence is growing. We now believe winning is possible, which is good. But we must also accept that in football you can win or lose. With realism and ambition, we will face this challenge.”
Read also: Ouahbi: I Won’t Reveal My Plan Before the 2026 World Cup
