Sports Historian Adel Saad: The Revolution in Stadiums and Transfers Places the Army, Wydad, and Raja at the Forefront of the Professional League
In light of the significant surge Morocco is experiencing in terms of football infrastructure and the remarkable results of the national teams, we conducted this interview with sports historian and writer Dr. Adel Saad, who expressed his admiration for the impressive development of Moroccan football, particularly in facilities, local competition, and international presence.
▪ How do you evaluate the atmosphere of the inauguration of the Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex after its renovation?
In truth, it was a wonderful celebration attended by Crown Prince Moulay Hassan. Additionally, the honoring of the workers who contributed to the construction of this historical edifice added a remarkable human touch. For me, as a passionate supporter of the Royal Army Club, I am very excited to see “the leader’s stronghold” hosting matches in its new form.
▪ How do you view the revolution experienced by the football infrastructure in Morocco?
It is a revolution by all standards, and it came at the perfect time, especially with Morocco preparing to host major events like the Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup. Infrastructure always reflects the advancement of nations, and within a remarkably short time, Morocco has accomplished a stunning modernization of its stadiums and sports facilities.
▪ What is your assessment of the Moroccan league?
I am a constant follower of the Moroccan league, especially the matches of my favorite team, the Royal Army. The Moroccan league is characterized by a diversity of competition, as evidenced by the recent championship win of RS Berkane, which secured its first title last season. The large fan attendance gives the league a special flavor and positions it among the strongest leagues in the region. With the renewal of the stadiums, I believe the league will present itself in an even better light, especially since it includes prestigious clubs such as the Royal Army, Wydad, and Raja, along with some of the most passionate fans I’ve seen in the stands.
▪ How do you see the transfers of the major clubs: the Royal Army, Wydad, Raja, and RS Berkane?
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The Royal Army, with its Portuguese coach Alexandre Santos, has made strong signings, notably the loan of Reda Slim to them from Al Ahly, along with Younes Abdellah, Marouane Louwadni, and Jamal Chamakh.
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Wydad, under my dear friend Mohamed Amin Ben Hashim, is going through a rebuilding phase, and despite the departure of several players, signings like Nourddin Amrabat and Walid Sabbari show positive indicators, alongside the need for patience and support.
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Raja has also made significant changes and impressive signings, including the return of Badr Bannoun, Al Makahazi, and talented player Mouad Al Duhak, along with goalkeeper Khalid Kabir El Aouli.
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RS Berkane is striving to affirm its status after its continental achievements, and its transfer market reflects its great ambitions.
I believe we will witness an exciting and distinct version of the professional league this season.
▪ What is your analysis of the national team’s victory in the local “CHAN” tournament under coach Tarek Sketiu?
Winning the title is the most resounding message of the success of this experience. Sketiu has established himself as an excellent coach after the achievement of the Paris 2024 Olympics (the first bronze medal for Arabs), and he has added the third “CHAN” title to Morocco.
He succeeded in bringing out the best in his players, as evidenced by Mohamed Rabi’a Harimat being named the best player, Osama Lmloui as the league’s top scorer (6 goals), including a historic goal in the final against Madagascar, and the remarkable performance of goalkeeper Mehdi Lahrar.
This victory increased the pressure on the senior national team under Walid Rekragui, especially since Moroccan fans are looking forward to a championship title in the Africa Cup of Nations, which has been absent since 1976, particularly with Morocco hosting the tournament.
▪ How do you evaluate Morocco’s win against Niger and qualifying for the World Cup?
The victory came at the right time, especially as it coincided with the opening of the new Moulay Abdellah Stadium, which makes the occasion unforgettable. The qualification was well-deserved, but what is most important is integrating new elements in preparation for the Africa Cup of Nations.
It is true that there are criticisms of the performance, but it remains “an ambitious project,” as the fans want both performance and results together. With Morocco possessing this arsenal of players, the ultimate goal remains to win the Africa Cup of Nations on home soil, and nothing less than that.
