“I am honored by the trust placed in me by the royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) and to continue the work accomplished by my predecessor, Reynald Pedros and his staff with the Moroccan women’s selection since 2021”, crowned by a qualification in the eighth final of the last World Cup, he indicated during a press conference organized at the Mohammed VI Football Complex and dedicated to the presentation of the new coach of the atlas Lionesses.
“This is a challenge that we are happy to take on with great enthusiasm and commitment,” he continued,expressing his ambition to build a strong and competitive selection.
“The sports facilities in Morocco,particularly the Mohammed VI Football Complex,are world-class,” he highlighted,noting his desire to implement a playing ideology that would suit the Atlas Lionesses.
“I have always admired the talent and passion of Moroccan footballers,” he added, noting that “being part of the project led by the FRMF is a obligation that I accepted with great humility.”
According to him, the players of the national team do not only represent their country, but “all women who fight to realize their dreams”.
Looking back on his career in Spain, he said he had unforgettable moments with the Spanish women’s team, which won the last edition of the FIFA World Cup, organized jointly by Australia and new Zealand.
For his part, the president of the FRMF, Fouzi Lekjaa, affirmed that the former staff of the Moroccan women’s selection did a good job, marked by a qualification for the round of 16 of the last World Cup.
After noting that the ambition of Morocco, HM King Mohammed VI and all Moroccans is to play decisive roles in global competitions, notably the World Cup, he estimated that national football is on a stunning dynamic.
“Qualifying for a World Cup and reaching the round of 16 is now a thing of the past.Today, national teams like futsal are seeking a world title,” he added.
“Our ambition is realistic, simple and clear, namely to move forward and do better,” he noted, stressing that the next events for the Atlas Lionesses will be the next African Cup. Nations which will be held in Morocco in 2024 and the 2027 world Cup.
How does the new coach plan to enhance the visibility and popularity of women’s football in Morocco?
Title: Insightful Interview with the New Coach of the Atlas Lionesses: Aiming for Glory in Women’s football
Q: Thank you for joining us today! To start, can you share your feelings about your recent appointment as the head coach of the Moroccan women’s national football team?
A: I am deeply honored by the trust placed in me by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF). It is a privilege to continue the great work accomplished by my predecessor, Reynald Pedros, and his team since 2021. Qualifying for the eighth final of the last World Cup was a significant achievement, and I am excited to build on that legacy.
Q: You mentioned enthusiasm and commitment in taking on this challenge. Can you elaborate on your vision for the team moving forward?
A: My vision is to create a strong and competitive selection. I have always admired the talent and passion of Moroccan footballers. My goal is to implement a playing ideology that resonates with the Atlas Lionesses, one that enhances their skills and teamwork to compete at the highest levels.
Q: The Mohammed VI Football Complex has been highlighted as a world-class facility. How do you plan to utilize such resources in developing the team?
A: The sports facilities in Morocco, especially the Mohammed VI Football Complex, are remarkable. They provide us with an excellent environment for training and development. We will leverage these facilities to focus on both physical conditioning and tactical training, ensuring that our players are well-prepared for upcoming competitions.
Q: Your career includes experience with the Spanish women’s team, which recently won the FIFA World Cup. How does that experience influence your approach with the Atlas Lionesses?
A: My time with the Spanish team was filled with unforgettable moments, and it has taught me invaluable lessons about teamwork, strategy, and maintaining a winning mentality. I bring that knowledge to my role here, emphasizing unity and shared goals among the players, which is crucial in achieving success.
Q: The FRMF president, Fouzi Lekjaa, mentioned the ambition to play decisive roles in global competitions. What are your thoughts on the future of Moroccan women’s football?
A: I believe the future is radiant for Moroccan women’s football. We have a clear ambition to build on our past successes. The qualification for the World Cup and reaching the round of 16 is a fantastic achievement, but we aim to raise the bar even higher.Our next immediate targets are the African cup of Nations in Morocco in 2024 and the 2027 World Cup.
Q: Portrayal is often a powerful motivator in sports. How do you view the role of your players as representatives of Moroccan women?
A: The players of the national team represent not only their country but also the aspirations of all women fighting to realize their dreams. It’s an obligation I accept with humility, and I encourage our players to embrace this role, inspiring the next generation of female athletes in Morocco.
Q: As you embark on this journey, what practical advice would you give to aspiring young footballers, especially girls, looking to follow in the footsteps of the Atlas Lionesses?
A: My advice is simple: believe in yourselves and pursue your passion relentlessly.Football is not just a game; it’s a platform for empowerment and achieving dreams. Train hard,stay dedicated,and remember that every champion was once an aspiring player. Surround yourself with supportive coaches and mentors who can guide you along the way.
Q: Thank you for sharing your insights today. we look forward to witnessing the progress of the Atlas Lionesses under your leadership!
A: thank you for having me. I’m excited about what the future holds, and I appreciate the support of everyone who believes in Moroccan women’s football. Together, we can achieve great things!