El Ouahdi: Regragui Communicates and Encourages Me; Every Player Dreams of AFCON Appearance

Zakaria El Ouahdi, the Moroccan professional with Belgian club Genk, has nominated the national reserve team to win the current Arab Cup in Qatar, asserting that the squad possesses the quality and experience to claim the title.

In an interview with "Voltaire Radio," the player explained that the reserve team "possesses the qualities of a champion," adding: "The level demonstrated by the players confirms that we are among the top contenders for the title, and we have players who are mentally and technically ready."

Regarding his international future and his ambition to be included in national coach Walid Regragui's squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which Morocco will host, El Ouahdi expressed a strong desire to wear the "Atlas Lions" jersey, stating: "Any player dreams of appearing in the AFCON. If the call comes, I will be proud and excited. Regragui communicates with me and always encourages me to work harder."

The Genk forward emphasized that Regragui's continuous support serves as an additional motivation for him to continue excelling, noting that the national team's door "remains open to anyone who proves their readiness." He also expressed his willingness to offer support from his position should he not make the final list: "The most important thing is the success of the national team, and the joy will be Moroccan, God willing."

El Ouahdi is currently enjoying a remarkable period with his Belgian club, having recently been awarded the "Belgian Lion" award for 2025. This accolade is presented to the best player of Arab origin in the Belgian league, with El Ouahdi triumphing over Algerian Adam Zorgane and Moroccan Sofiane Boufal.