It is a confidence that risks being talked about. In an interview with the Spanish newspaper ASWalid Regragui has engaged in open heart. And among his words, a sentence slams as a warning: “I was not congratulated for the World Cup. »» Behind this outing, the Atlas Lions coach expresses a form of weariness, even misunderstanding. Despite a historic journey to the semi-final of the 2022 World Cup, never reached by an African nation, Regragui has the feeling that his feat has not been fully recognized. Nor by its audience. Nor by his instances.
The coach does not complain about the pressure. On the contrary, he kisses her. “Moroccans want to win everything, and I like it”, he assures. But he regrets that Qatar's feat is already considered an achievement. “If we lose early CAN, we will say that the World Cup was an accident. »» A hard, but lucid observation. Regragui knows that his country has changed status. And that with this new costume come from much higher expectations.
Regragui, alone against everyone? The coach sends a strong message
Now, all eyes are turned to the African Cup of Nations. For Regragui, it will be the real test. He wants a professional team at all levels, structured, disciplined, ready to compete with the best selections on the continent. No more folklore, make way for efficiency. “Before, we came to the selection to laugh. Today, everything is organized as in Europe. »»
Regragui: between world resentment and continental mission
REGRAGUI also evokes the case Brahim Diaz, a player whose commitment to Morocco represents in his eyes much more than a simple sports reinforcement.
“He could have chosen Spain, he plays Real Madrid, he had every reason to say no. But he said yes in Morocco. »» A strong, almost militant choice, which illustrates the new values that the selection wishes to embody: attachment, pride, transmission. Regragui insists on the concept of belonging. He does not want opportunistic players, but men fully invested in the collective project. This is also why he takes the time to meet families, to explain, to convince.
In the background of this interview, you feel a deaf frustration. Regragui does not shout his resentment, but he said with accuracy: he would have liked a word, a gesture, a recognition for what his team has accomplished in Qatar. Not to flatter your ego, but to strengthen a dynamic. Man remains focused on his goals, but the message has passed. He wants seriousness, ambition, and above all respect. For his players, for his staff, for him. The CAN is approaching. And if Morocco triumphs, this time we will not forget to greet him.
