Morocco’s rising talents: coach Regragui unveils 14 new faces for AFCON 2023
Coach Walid Regragui has ushered in a new era by introducing 14 fresh talents to the national team in 2023. As the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) approaches, scheduled to kick off on January 17 against Tanzania, we delve into the profiles of these rising stars, analyzing their journeys, current standing in the team, and prospects for participating in the highly anticipated tournament.
Ayoub Amraoui
Nineteen-year-old Ayoub Amraoui, the left-back for OGC Nice, showcases immense promise. While his immediate future might not involve AFCON, his inclusion in the U23s and potential participation in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games hint at a bright trajectory.
Benjamin Bouchouari
Playing for AS Saint Etienne in Ligue 2, 22-year-old Benjamin Bouchouari boasts an impressive record with 17 league games this season. Despite his U23 AFCON triumph, Bouchouari is yet to earn an international cap and may have to bide his time until after the tournament.
Yassine Kechta
At 21, Yassine Kechta, with 16 Ligue 1 appearances for Le Havre, presents a case for inclusion. However, his lack of international experience may influence Coach Regragui’s final decisions.
Ibrahim Salah
The left-winger, Ibrahim Salah, aged 22, offers versatility to Stade Rennais but faces the hurdle of no A-team caps. His performances hint at AFCON potential, though inexperience might prove a limiting factor.
Chadi Riad
Twenty-year-old central defender Chadi Riad, on loan from FC Barcelona to Betis Sevilla, showcases promise in La Liga. Despite intriguing potential, his lack of caps and potential positional competition could see him missing out on AFCON.
Abdel Abqar
A standout central defender for Deportivo Alaves at 24, Abdel Abqar has impressed with 14 appearances in La Liga. His notable contributions and past representation at the U17, U20, and U23 levels make him a strong candidate for AFCON.
Rachid Ghanimi
Twenty-two-year-old goalkeeper Rachid Ghanimi, from Rapide Oued Zem, stands out for his AFCON U23 triumph but faces tough competition for a spot in the final list.
الركراكي يستدعي رشيد غانيمي حارس سريع وادي زم ، ولد لمدينة و الفريق pic.twitter.com/iDVM9VJw3m
— つづく (@Raschiid) March 24, 2023
Youssef El Motie
The towering 26-year-old goalkeeper Youssef El Motie, representing Wydad Casablanca, faces stiff competition. Despite his stature, he might not secure a place in the Moroccan squad for AFCON.
Compilation sur la prestation monstrueuse de Youssef El Motie hier ❤️
🎥 : Wydad Edits (Fb) pic.twitter.com/CO5e74C55e
— Wydad Red Castle (@WydadRedCastle) April 13, 2023
Ismael Kandouss
With a solitary cap in June, 26-year-old Ismael Kandouss has exhibited defensive prowess for La Gantoise. However, his chances for AFCON appear slim, given stiff competition.
Amine Adli
Amine Adli, 23, with four caps since September, showcases attacking prowess for Leverkusen. His impressive performances increase the likelihood of a prominent role in AFCON.
https://youtu.be/tdP6x3zlz2w
Amir Richardson
Son of NBA legend Micheal Richardson, 1.97-meter-tall Amir Richardson, aged 22, has integrated into the A-team with three caps. His dynamic midfield presence and notable season with Stade de Reims position him as a strong candidate for AFCON.
Ismael Saibari
At 22, PSV Eindhoven’s midfielder Ismael Saibari has four caps and has proven his mettle in the Dutch championship. His creativity and intelligence make him a valuable asset for the Atlas Lions in AFCON.
Oussama El Azzouzi
Making his debut in October, defensive midfielder Oussama El Azzouzi, aged 22, faces stiff competition but exhibits potential for future engagements with the national team.
https://youtu.be/7qf58XNQV90
Sofiane Diop
While the 23-year-old Sofiane Diop had promising chances for AFCON, an injury sustained in November may sideline him. His return is eagerly anticipated, potentially in March.
As Morocco anticipates AFCON, the blend of experience and emerging talent under Coach Regragui promises an exciting era for the Atlas Lions.
