Former Moroccan Soccer Star Chamakh Reveals Family Focus Behind Early Retirement

In May 2019, Marouane Chamakh, aged 35, ended his career without really going into the reasons. The former striker of the Atlas Lions and the Girondins de Bordeaux, declared during the interview given to 2M, that he wished to devote himself to his family.

Based in Marrakech, he has taken the time to actively participate in the education of his two daughters, especially in the special care of his eldest daughter who is autistic. "I manage my post-career as best I can. That is to say, I take much more time for my family and for my personal affairs. I really cut off for three years to take care of my two daughters and their health."

As Marouane Chamakh had been free of any contract since his departure from Cardiff City in 2016, before retiring from the sports world in 2019, many had thought that he had made this decision because he had no choice. He explains that he had very good offers but for him, the well-being of his family is more important. "It’s not because I couldn’t find a club that I stopped playing football. I didn’t necessarily say it, but I had offers in the United States, China, the Middle East... But I preferred to draw a line and enjoy my family. And I absolutely do not regret it, because I have learned a lot and I have done a lot of things."

Even though he has retired, the former player thinks of returning to the sports world, but this time as a coach. Today, with clearer ideas, he plans to obtain his diploma before looking for a club that will want his coaching skills. "It’s 100% possible! But I want to have the necessary background and that goes through the diplomas in the field. It’s only after that that I’ll be able to do it in 5 to 10 years, if I want to.But my dream, of course, is to coach the Girondins de Bordeaux, to put into practice what I have learned, and my way of seeing football. I hope to be back on the field soon," he stressed.