Before Morocco–Mali: Azzedine Ounahi divides, Regragui decides

Substituted in the 64th minute of the first match, the midfielder did not have his usual influence. The coach acknowledges it without beating around the bush: "We were expecting a bit more from him," he admits. However, there is no question of abandoning the one who was the revelation of the World Cup in Qatar. For Regragui, Ounahi is a special player who needs to be protected "come what may," says L’Equipe.

The player’s recent journey commands the coach’s respect. After a traumatic stint at OM, marked by an injury, a depression linked to a personal bereavement, and pressure to leave the ship, Ounahi has made strong choices. Pushed towards the exit by Medhi Benatia, he refused the golden bridges of Qatar (Al-Sadd) and Russia (Spartak Moscow) to prioritize the sporting level.

A winning bet. After a rebirth in Greece, he now shines in Spain under the colors of Girona. "He has made a lot of sacrifices, he loves his country. Azzedine’s priority has always been the national team," Regragui emphasizes.

It is this patriotic fiber that makes the player indispensable in the eyes of the staff. Where some shine in their clubs and collapse in the national team, Ounahi does the opposite. "Every time he wears this jersey, he is transformed. The jersey is never too heavy for him," the coach concludes, leaving little doubt about his presence against the Eagles of Mali this Friday.