What they said about Walid Regragui
Who is Walid Regragui, the first Arab and African coach to qualify for the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup™? Hear from his players, former team-mates and opponents to find out more about the man.
Walid Regragui is the first African coach to make the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup ™
The Morocco coach only took the reins a few weeks before Qatar 2022™
Find out what his players, former team-mates and opponents think of him
“Regragui speaks three or four languages. He was born in France and has the same mindset as players born outside of Morocco. He knows how to communicate with them, get his message across and encourage them.” Talal El Karkouri, former Morocco team-mate from 2001 – 2009
“Regragui is the engine that drives the whole team. Since he came in to coach us a few months ago, he’s brought a whole new spirit to the team. He has a great relationship with all the players and that’s one of the main factors you need if you want to go far in a competition of this size.” Romain Saiss, Morocco player
“He’s a top-level coach. He represents us and inspires an unparalleled sense of pride among African coaches. I wish him every success from hereon in.” Pitso Mosimane, former coach of Egyptian club Al Ahly, who lost the final of the CAF Champions League in 2022 to Moroccan side Wydad Athletic Club, coached by Regragui
“Coach Regragui has boundless confidence in us, and this is an essential part of the mentality that has allowed us to get this far already in the World Cup. We owe him so much.” Yahya Attiat-Allah, Morocco player
“Back when he was a player, he dreamt of becoming a coach. He never had the chance to play at a World Cup but now here he is, in charge of Morocco in World Cup competition and he is doing incredible work. He’s been given the chance to coach Morocco and he’s proved that he deserved that opportunity. He’s fulfilled his dream and I’m happy for him.” Jaouad Zairi, former Morocco team-mate from 2001 – 2009
“Our coach deserves a lot of respect. He hasn’t even been with us for three months. He coached us for just one training block and two friendlies before the start of the World Cup, but right from day one, he was clear in what he wanted from us. We’ve worked a lot on the technical side of things and you’re getting to see the results, because it’s now extremely difficult for our opponents to score against us.” Sofyan Amrabat, Morocco player
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