Former Moroccan Soccer Star Becomes Celebrated Youth Coach in France

– bySylvanus@Bladi · 2 min read
Former Moroccan Soccer Star Becomes Celebrated Youth Coach in France

Mohamed Chaliki, a Moroccan living in France, has gone from being a football globetrotter to a recognized educator in just a few years. A nice tribute was paid to him on Friday during the closing reception of the football school at the club house.

Football has no secrets for Mohamed Chaliki, known as "Momo". He developed his passion for the round ball in El Jadida, Morocco. After a stint in Italy, where his father Bouchaïb worked, he will continue his studies and continue his training in Bari. He grew up in France and played for several clubs in the region. Momo played for Pontet in CFA from 2006 to 2009, then two seasons at Lattes in DH R (2010-2012), went through Canet and Alignan-du-Vent (PHA) before retiring at Palavas. He will then play in R1, R2 and D2. In 2017. The young Moroccan signed with the CEP. Since early September 2021, he has been running the Palavas football school, reports Midi Libre.

He prioritizes the training of young people within his club and meets with success. "I knew very young that I would be an educator," says Momo. "I took over the U9s three years ago and each year I follow them in their evolution in their new age category. With the U12/U13, we participated in the Villeneuve-lès-Maguelone tournament during the Pentecost tournament which welcomed more than 600 children. We were losing 3-0 against La Ciotat, we came back to 3/3 but we lost on penalties. A great satisfaction for the management team but a big disappointment for the children I love so much."

His work is appreciated by the leaders, the children and especially the parents of the U12/U13 he has been following for more than three years. "He is an excellent educator, very close and respectful of the children," explained Guillaume and Cédric, the fathers of Gaspard and Yoann. "He is demanding in terms of sports and education. He respects the children and they give it back to him. We hope he will continue his mission at the club for many years to come."