Quarter-finals. Morocco – Portugal, this Saturday (4 p.m.)
How did you meet Walid Regragui in 2020?
We had a mutual friend. When he was in Doha, in Al-Duhail, Walid was looking for someone to work with him. I had the chance to go to a tournament there with the PSG U16s and we met. We worked together for six months. We had common acquaintances: Mehdi Benatia and Karim Boudiaf, whom I had met in Lorient, were playing at Al-Duhail.
Knowing the character, not at all. He is able to unite a group, to take people with him and I think that’s what he manages to do with the national team. He is a very competent person, who knows football well. He’s smart, clever. There is also, no doubt, the fact that he recovered the selection after Vahid Halilhodži?. Let’s say that it may have been easier because in my opinion, his management method is more appropriate for this group. This does not detract from his skills and his profile.
Is he underestimated?
No, because he is a young coach (47 years old). But it’s true that since he’s been doing this job, he’s been winning all the time. At the head of Fus Rabat, in Morocco, which is not the strongest club in the country, he won the championship. In Doha, we were champions of Qatar. Then he returned to Wydad Athletic Club Casablanca and won the African Cup. And today, we see what happens with the selection. He is a winning coach, even in difficult situations.
What did you keep from this collaboration?
Only positive. We got along of course. And I really like the person. He’s a real good guy, someone reliable, who leaves you a lot of leeway in the work.
What relationship does he have with his players?
He is very close to them. He has a lot of empathy and affection for them. In management, he is clever, he knows people well. It goes very well. And I think that’s what happens with a lot of players in the selection. He picked up Hakim Ziyech for example. I think the players want to return all the affection he has for them. Walid is a true leader of men.
Can he still surprise everyone against Portugal?
I think it will be difficult. His players left a lot of energy physically and mentally. Will they have recovered well, especially emotionally? I’m not sure of it. And in my opinion, the Portuguese have more arguments than the Spanish team which was a lot in possession but little in percussion.
