Wydad split over Patrice Carteron’s future amid financial concerns

Wydad Athletic Club remains undecided over the future of head coach Patrice Carteron, with sharp divisions emerging within the club’s leadership.

While some officials are backing him to stay until the end of the season, others are calling for his immediate dismissal following a run of four matches without a win.

Internal Confusion and Mounting Pressure

Reports from Al-Akhbar suggest that the indecision reflects deeper uncertainty within the club’s decision-making structure. Recent poor results have intensified pressure from supporters, who are demanding swift action to revive the team’s form.

200 Million Centimes Dilemma

At the center of the debate is a significant financial obstacle. Club president Hicham Ait Mana and his board are wary of the cost of terminating Carteron’s contract, which could reach 200 million centimes. Given the club’s current financial situation, this compensation figure has forced some officials to reconsider making an immediate change.

Calls for Change Grow Louder

Despite the financial concerns, a strong faction within the club is pushing for a new direction. Among the names being discussed is Josef Zinnbauer, who is highly regarded for his managerial experience. There is also growing support for the return of Mohamed Amine Benhachem, a figure believed by many players to be capable of restoring unity and competitive spirit within the squad.

VAR Controversy Adds Fuel to Tensions

Off-field tensions have been further inflamed by refereeing controversy. Wydad issued a strong statement following their recent match against Kawkab Marrakech, where they were denied what they described as a legitimate goal.

The club directly criticized the use of Video Assistant Referee, arguing that repeated officiating errors are negatively impacting their campaign. Wydad has formally contacted the National Professional Football League, calling for an urgent investigation into the incident.

Demand for Fairness in the Competition

In its statement, the club stressed that the VAR intervention in the match was unjustified and led to an incorrect decision that influenced the final result. Wydad warned that recurring errors, even with video technology in place, undermine fairness and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the competition.

As the debate over Carteron’s future continues, Wydad finds itself balancing financial realities, sporting ambitions, and growing frustration over officiating decisions, all at a critical stage of the season.