Radwan Jiyed: "I am Ready for Accountability and Punishment if Any of Zmarat's Claims are Proven True, Everyone Knows I Have Only One Phone Number"

Radwan Jiyed, Director of the National Refereeing Directorate, responded to accusations made by national coach Abdelwahed Zmarat regarding external interference in referees' decisions. Jiyed described such statements as "very dangerous" and asserted they could not be allowed to pass without investigation.

Jiyed stated: "This is very, very dangerous talk. The work done by those overseeing the football system, across all its categories, cannot be subjected to accusations and serious claims without evidence. This is unacceptable, and no self-respecting person can hear such things and let them go unchallenged."

He added: "Before I say anything else, I am ready for accountability and ready for punishment if even a single letter of Zmarat's words is proven true. The fundamental principle in justice is that the burden of proof lies with the accuser."

Jiyed continued, emphasizing his readiness to cooperate with any investigation: "My phone is available, and everyone knows I have only one number and one phone. I have no problem and am ready to submit it for technical expertise by the scientific police once an investigation into the matter is opened – not just my phone, but also the phones of all the referees who were in the match."

Jiyed challenged Zmarat, saying: "If Zmarat wants all the matches involving his team, and if it is proven that I spoke to them during a match, then I am ready, and I say this before all Moroccans. If these claims are proven, show me no mercy. If it is proven that I communicated with referees in any way during their matches, then let them hold me accountable without mercy."

Radwan Jiyed concluded his statement by asserting his honor and integrity: "Everyone knows Radwan Jiyed; I only have my honor and integrity. For someone to come and falsely accuse you is unacceptable, and I also demand my rights."

Radwan Jiyed's statement comes amid escalating tensions following Zmarat's accusations. Meanwhile, the Professional League, through its president, announced it would file a complaint with the security and judicial authorities to launch a thorough investigation into the allegations against the Refereeing Directorate and to reveal the facts to the public.