Mohamed Ouahbi Addresses Ayyoub Bouaddi's National Team Selection
In a recent press conference held on May 27, 2026, Mohamed Ouahbi, the head coach of the Moroccan national football team, addressed the significant topic of Ayyoub Bouaddi's selection for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tournament is set to commence on June 11, and as anticipation builds, the final rosters of participating nations are being revealed. Ouahbi unveiled his squad of 26 players, emphasizing a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, notably highlighting Bouaddi's inclusion as a fresh face in the team.
During the conference, Ouahbi was questioned about Bouaddi's decision to represent Morocco, especially since the young midfielder had the option to play for France. The coach firmly stated, "We did not fight against France for him," underscoring that Bouaddi, at just 18 years old, made a thoughtful and mature choice regarding his international allegiance. He expressed his admiration for the young player, saying, "He is a very reflective boy, attentive, and possesses immense talent. It is a pleasure to work with him."
Integration and Expectations for the World Cup
Ouahbi also touched upon Bouaddi's late arrival to the national team gathering, attributing it to club commitments, particularly his involvement in the UEFA Champions League qualification. Despite this, the coach assured the media that Bouaddi's integration into the squad has gone smoothly. "We are convinced that he will contribute significantly during the World Cup. We are proud and happy to have him with us, and he is equally pleased to be here," Ouahbi stated with confidence.
Reflecting on Bouaddi's performance, Ouahbi remarked, "He played 25 minutes today in our friendly match against Burundi, which we won 5-0, and he understood everything we asked of him. It is impressive. We are very confident about what he brings to the team moving forward." The optimism surrounding Bouaddi's potential impact in the upcoming World Cup illustrates the high expectations placed upon the young talent, marking his debut on such a significant stage in international football.
As reported by lepetitlillois.com.
