Morocco’s Ziyech Denies Retirement Rumors, Clashes with Sports Minister

The Ajax Amsterdam player has been the target of the public and several sports observers, criticized for his lack of punch and dedication during the CAN. For the first time, he posts a message on Instagram, denying all the allegations of the public. He writes: "If they have no story, they will create one."

Regarding his possible withdrawal from the international scene and his intention to abandon the game with the national team, the Atlas Lion has been as clear and direct as possible against the people behind these false statements. He denied everything across the board.

Moreover, Ziyech did not fail to comment on the statements of the Minister of Youth and Sports, Rachid Talbi El Alami, calling him a story inventor. The latter had claimed that the player no longer intended to play again with the national team, because of the harsh criticism of the public, following the penalty missed in the round of 16 against Benin. Addressing the Minister, Ziyech said: "Next time, if you intend to make an announcement, make sure it’s the truth, not lies."

According to a survey conducted by Hespress, the responsibility for the crushing failure of the Atlas Lions lies, in particular, with the President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), Faouzi Lekjaa, and the coach, Hervé Renard. The latter neglected the local players in favor of international professionals who, in the opinion of the surveyed public, do not have the competitive spirit or the necessary physical and mental abilities.