Wahbi began by thanking King Mohammed VI, praising the support Moroccan football continues to receive before stressing that reaching the quarter-finals had never been the team’s ultimate objective. He said Morocco would continue working to achieve better results in future tournaments.
The Morocco coach said he was satisfied with the performances of his players, arguing that the team succeeded in imposing a style of play that reflects the country’s footballing identity.
He added that the tournament should serve as a foundation for the challenges ahead. Wahbi dismissed injuries and absences as reasons for Morocco’s elimination, saying the team should not look for excuses.
He pointed out that the current squad is the same group that has helped Morocco achieve historic success through its performances during the competition.
He also acknowledged that selecting the final squad had been difficult because of how little separated many of the players in terms of quality. Every selection, he said, followed discussions within the coaching staff before he made the final decision as head coach.
Wahbi also addressed the controversy sparked by comments from Sofyan Amrabat’s brother, rejecting suggestions of any personal disagreement with the midfielder.
He said Amrabat was selected because the coaching staff believed he deserved to be in the squad, adding that his professionalism, discipline and commitment in training had earned widespread praise.
He added that Amrabat accepted his role professionally despite his understandable desire to start matches. While the midfielder was disappointed by his limited playing time, he returned to training each day with a positive attitude and remained fully committed.
Speaking about the comments made by Amrabat’s brother, Wahbi said family members are often guided by emotion, whereas competition within the squad remains the only factor behind selection decisions.
He added that similar situations arise with many national teams and that managing internal competition is part of his responsibility as head coach.
Wahbi concluded by insisting that technical decisions are never made by one person alone but are the product of ongoing discussions among the coaching staff, whom he described as working in complete harmony.
He said the focus now is on improving the areas that require further development rather than the rumors and side stories, including speculation about a disagreement with assistant coach Sacramento.
