Mohamed Sliten: A Legacy in Moroccan Football

Mohamed Sliten, an iconic figure in Moroccan football, passed away on August 31, 2026, as confirmed by the Mohammed VI Foundation for Champions Sports on their official Facebook page. His death has sparked an outpouring of grief across social media, with hundreds of tributes pouring in from fans, teammates, and sports enthusiasts alike. Known as the "King of Dribble," Sliten was one of the pioneering Moroccan footballers to make a name for himself in professional European leagues during the 1960s, particularly in Belgium and Switzerland. Born in Marrakech, he began his football journey at Mouloudia in the Riad Zitoun neighborhood before moving on to prominent clubs like Standard Liege in Belgium and Young Boys in Switzerland.

Sliten's remarkable talent was highlighted by his historic achievement as the first Moroccan and Arab player to score a hat-trick against Manchester United during a friendly match in the mid-1960s while playing for Young Boys. His unique penalty-taking technique and exceptional dribbling skills earned him accolades and admiration from fans and critics alike, solidifying his status as a footballing legend in Switzerland.

A Glorious Return to Morocco and National Impact

After a successful stint in Europe, Sliten returned to Morocco in the late 1960s, where he joined Ittihad Sidi Kacem. Here, he continued to excel, winning multiple titles and earning the distinction of being named the best player in Morocco on several occasions. His elegant playing style made him a crucial part of the USK team during their golden era, competing fiercely against renowned teams of that time such as the RSS, FAR, and KAC.

Furthermore, Sliten represented the national team during the golden age of Moroccan football in the 1960s and early 1970s. His career, however, faced a setback when an injury deprived him of the opportunity to participate in the 1970 World Cup in Mexico—a regret he often expressed throughout his life. As Sliten's contributions to Moroccan football are celebrated, his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of athletes.

As reported by maroc-hebdo.com.