Mehdi Benatia’s decision to leave Juventus and continue his career in Qatar during the last winter transfer window sparked strong reactions, particularly among Moroccan supporters. Formerly a key figure in European football and a defensive pillar for both club and country, the experienced center-back suddenly found himself at the center of controversy. Many fans interpreted his move as a step backward and questioned his commitment to the Moroccan national team. Faced with growing criticism, Benatia chose to address the issue openly in an interview with beIN Sports, offering a calm but firm response to his detractors.
The former Juventus defender expressed disappointment at the sudden change in attitude from some supporters. According to Benatia, many of the people now criticizing him are the same fans who once praised his courage and dedication. He recalled a particularly symbolic moment: a match against Ivory Coast in which he played despite being injured, putting his body on the line for the national team. “Many people send me messages like, ‘Now you’re in Qatar, we don’t need you anymore, no need to come to the national team,’” Benatia explained. “But these are the same people who were applauding me when I played injured against Ivory Coast.”
Benatia emphasized that during that match, he fulfilled his defensive duties and even came close to scoring a second goal, underlining his commitment and professionalism. For him, the criticism feels unfair and contradictory. “These are the same people who thanked you, who are now spitting on you because you made a choice they don’t like,” he said, clearly frustrated by the sudden shift in perception. While acknowledging that fans are entitled to their opinions, Benatia made it clear that his career choices should not erase years of dedication to the national jersey.
Rather than engaging in polemics, the Moroccan defender stressed that decisions regarding his place in the national team are not up to supporters, but to the coaching staff and the federation. He showed great respect for head coach Hervé Renard and accepted the possibility that his role could change. “If coach Hervé Renard tells me, ‘Mehdi, I don’t think you’re fit to represent Morocco anymore,’ there’s no problem,” he stated. This comment highlighted Benatia’s maturity and understanding of football realities, where form and competition determine selection.
More importantly, Benatia reaffirmed his unconditional attachment to Morocco. Even if he were no longer selected, his support for the national team would remain unchanged. He said he would still travel to Egypt for the Africa Cup of Nations to cheer on his teammates, demonstrating that his commitment goes beyond personal ambition. “If other players are performing better than me, there’s no issue,” he added, accepting competition as a natural part of the sport.
The former captain also underlined his willingness to adapt his role within the group. Whether as a leader on the pitch or a supportive presence on the bench, Benatia believes his experience can still benefit the team. Ultimately, he concluded by reminding everyone that final decisions belong to the coaching staff and the federation, not public opinion.
Through his measured response, Mehdi Benatia sought to calm the debate and reaffirm his loyalty to Moroccan football. His words reflect a player who, despite criticism, remains deeply attached to his country and respectful of the institutions that govern the national team.
