Walid Regragui Announces the Moroccan National Team Squad: A Detailed Analysis
The Moroccan national team squad for the upcoming international break has been revealed by head coach Walid Regragui. The list includes 26 players, covering goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards. In this article, we will break down the selections, analyzing each position and discussing the rationale behind Regragui’s choices.
Goalkeepers
The three goalkeepers selected are Yassine Bounou, Munir Mohamedi, and Ben Abid. Regragui has consistently trusted these three options, believing they provide stability and reliability in goal. The debate over the third-choice goalkeeper continues, with some advocating for Salah-Eddine Chahbi instead of Ben Abid. However, Regragui’s principle remains clear: a player must be actively competing at a high level to secure his spot in the squad.
Defenders
A new name in the defensive lineup is Omar Hilali, who earns his first call-up to the national team. Other defenders include Harkass, Jawad El Yamiq (returning after an absence), Achraf Hakimi, Noussair Mazraoui, Nayef Aguerd, and Romain Saïss. The selection of El Yamiq was largely due to a lack of better alternatives, as Regragui has been searching for a solid defensive option. The return of Harkass has also sparked debate, with some arguing he is not yet at the level required for international duty.
Hilali has been outstanding with his club in La Liga, playing 2,202 minutes this season, showcasing both consistency and versatility. His ability to play as a full-back or center-back makes him a valuable asset for the team.
Midfielders
The midfield sees the inclusion of a promising talent: Bilal Nadir of Marseille. While some question his selection due to limited playing time (only 282 minutes this season), Regragui’s reasoning seems to be based on observing the player in the national team environment. Other midfielders include Sofyan Amrabat, Azzedine Ounahi, Bilal El Khannous, Ismael Saibari, and Amine Harit. The selection of Nadir suggests that Regragui is looking to expand his options and test new players who may contribute in the future.
Some names were surprisingly left out, such as Benjamin Bouchouari and Yassine Kechta, who have been performing well for their respective clubs. However, Regragui’s strategy appears to prioritize consistency in squad selection, ensuring a stable core while introducing only a few new names.
Forwards
Regragui has introduced two new forwards to the squad: Shamseddine Talbi and Hamza Igman. Both players have been making significant strides with their clubs, earning their first national team call-ups. Alongside them, the squad includes Abde Ezzalzouli, Ayoub El Kaabi, Youssef En-Nesyri, and Amine Adli.
Talbi, playing for Club Brugge in Belgium, has accumulated 990 minutes this season, showing promise and efficiency in attack. His performances in domestic and European competitions have impressed the coaching staff, leading to his selection. Similarly, Igman’s dynamic style and versatility make him a valuable addition to the team.
Regragui’s Strategy and Squad Stability
One of Regragui’s key principles is squad stability. He believes that maintaining a consistent lineup contributes to stronger team chemistry and performance. This explains why several players, despite not being in peak form, have retained their places. His philosophy is clear: “A winning team should not be changed unless necessary.”
The return of El Yamiq and the inclusion of Hilali highlight Regragui’s attempt to reinforce the defensive line. Meanwhile, the selection of Bilal Nadir raises questions, but it aligns with the coach’s approach of gradually integrating young talents.
Regragui’s squad selection balances experience with new additions, keeping a core group intact while testing emerging talents. While some choices remain debatable, his strategy revolves around maintaining squad cohesion and rewarding players who have shown consistency and dedication.
As the Moroccan team prepares for the upcoming fixtures, all eyes will be on these players to prove their worth and secure their spots for future competitions. Fans will eagerly watch how these new faces blend with the established squad and whether Regragui’s approach will yield positive results for the national team.
