Former Morocco Captain Benatia Cites Media Pressure in National Team Retirement

At the end of his career, Medhi Benatia opposed the call of the new coach Vahid Halilhodzic, upon his arrival. With 62 caps to his name, he feels he has given so much to his country.

According to the Al Duhail player, his departure is explained by the incessant criticism from the press. "Unfortunately, in Morocco, during my time, there weren’t many players playing in big teams, so every time something had to be said, my name was put in the middle of an article to create buzz," Medhi Benatia recalled on the RMC Sport set. His relations were not always sweet with the local press.

The former captain, who will turn 33 in 2020, continued his explanations by indicating that every time the national team lost, his name was always cited to justify any behavior on the field or the arrival of a new element in the selection. "Honestly, I was very mentally tired with the national team. I never took sides for anyone. I always just contented myself with being there, listening if someone needed it," stressed the former leader of the Lions.

For the Moroccan who has rubbed shoulders with great captains of the national team like Totti, Lahm, Buffon, this position had become too heavy for him. However, he has good memories, including the World Cup, his relationships with the other teammates, former coach Hervé Renard and especially Morocco. "Anyway, despite all my troubles with the press, when I go to Morocco, there is a lot of love. Maybe that’s where I’ll end my life. It’s my country, and that warmth pleases me," said Benatia, who has received several testimonials from his former club and national team teammates.