Regragui under fire for Olympic interference

Regragui under fire for Olympic interference
AFP
Monday 5 August 2024 - 23:40

National coach Walid Regragui has been the center of controversy due to his frequent presence at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, with critics on social media arguing that Regragui is overstepping his bounds by interfering with the Olympic team’s coaching staff, led by Tariq Sektioui.

Regragui was seen in the team’s hotel and training ground as well the stands, the locker room, and even the pitch post-match.

Moroccan fans have expressed growing discontent with Regragui’s apparent overreach.

Some perceive his actions as an attempt to capitalize on the Olympic team’s success. In contrast, others believe he is overstepping his role and interfering with the work of head coach Tariq Saktioui.

Social media erupted with criticism after Regragui was seen speaking to players during halftime of the Spain match, which Morocco ultimately lost.

The coach’s relationship with the Olympic team has been complex. He was previously credited with guiding the team to the African U-23 Cup of Nations and securing Olympic qualification but was subsequently replaced by Sektioui, justified by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation  as part of a new approach emphasizing coordination between national teams.

However, sources who spoke to Hespress AR suggest that Regragui’s desire for greater control over the Olympic squad influenced the decision, which is seen as a pipeline for the senior team.

Morocco will compete for the bronze medal on Thursday in Nantes.

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