Moroccan national team coach Walid Regragui has confirmed that efforts are ongoing to persuade Lille midfielder Ayoub Bouaddi to represent Morocco instead of France in the future.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, ahead of Morocco’s matches against Niger and Tanzania, Regragui stated: “I always say that when you see the player’s name on our squad list, then you can consider him with us—just like we did with Talbi’s case between Belgium and Morocco.”
He emphasized that both he and the president of the Moroccan Football Federation are personally involved in convincing players to join the national team, adding that Bouaddi is “one of the biggest talents in world football” and that they are doing everything to bring him into the squad.
Regarding Fulham defender Issa Diop, Regragui made it clear that he has never been in contact with the player or his entourage, stating, “He has never reached out to express his desire to play for Morocco. That’s all there is to it—he is not in my plans.”
On Athletic Bilbao striker Marouane Sanhaji, Regragui revealed that the player was included in the preliminary squad as a signal of interest. “He has played a few La Liga games and scored a goal. He’s a good striker, but he needs to score more consistently, like En-Nesyri and Rahimi, to earn a spot in the future.” He also explained that Hamza Igamane was called up to replace the injured Ayoub El Kaabi.
When asked about Naël Aynaoui of RC Lens, Regragui said: “He is a talented player, but he must show a strong desire to join the Moroccan national team. We’ll see what happens in the future. The door is always open.”
Regragui also expressed pride in facing former Morocco coach Badou Zaki, who now manages Niger. “It’s an honor to compete against Zaki. He’s a great person, and I was with him during one of Morocco’s best AFCON campaigns in recent years.”
The coach addressed his squad selections, noting that Bilel Nadir has been called up after impressing in midfield for Olympique de Marseille. Regarding Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, Regragui praised his development at Real Betis despite the tough competition for playing time.
He also highlighted the strong goalkeeping options available, saying: “Yassine Bounou is one of the best goalkeepers in Africa and the world. Having two top-level goalkeepers like Bounou and Munir Mohamedi is a luxury we haven’t had for years.”
The return of Mehdi Benabid was also explained: “I know him well, and he has regained his competitive edge at Wydad.” Meanwhile, defender Jamal Harkass earned another call-up after performing well for Wydad, while Youssef Belamri was left out due to injury.
Regarding Ayoub El Kaabi’s absence, Regragui confirmed: “Unfortunately, he won’t be with us. He felt discomfort during a test on Wednesday and needs 10 days of rest.”
The coach also commented on Ismael Saibari’s recent disciplinary issue at PSV Eindhoven, where he was dropped from the squad for being late.
“Saibari is a professional. What matters to me is that when he is with the national team, he’s always on time. Club situations are different, but I know him well—he is disciplined and always gives his best for Morocco.”
Morocco is preparing to face Niger and Tanzania on March 17 and 24 in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The team currently leads its group with nine points from three wins, followed by Niger and Tanzania with six points each, Zambia with three points, and Congo with zero. Eritrea withdrew from the qualifiers earlier.
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