Sektoui: 'Special Matters' Prevented Batna's Arab Cup Inclusion; 'He's a Talented Player Every Moroccan Should Be Proud Of'

Tarik Sektoui, coach of the Moroccan national reserve team, affirmed that player Mourad Batna remains a significant asset to Moroccan football. Sektoui expressed his respect and appreciation for Batna, noting that specific circumstances prevented the player from joining the squad for the Arab Cup.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Sektoui stated: “I want to thank player Batna. I conducted a tour in Qatar and Saudi Arabia, during which I met with several players, including Mourad.”

He continued: “I publicly thank him for his kind words about me and for the positive discussions we shared. He is a great and talented player, and I truly wished he could have been with us.”

Sektoui further explained: “There are specific reasons that prevented his presence, which I cannot disclose. Nevertheless, Batna remains a great player and person, and every Moroccan has the right to be proud of him.”

The Moroccan national team is scheduled to play Oman tomorrow, Friday, at 3:30 PM Moroccan time. This match is part of the second round of the Arab Cup group stage.