Adil Rami Slams Senegal Coach: 'Started Propaganda Before Final, Should Talk About His Team Not Criticizing Morocco'

19 January 2026at22:45

Former French international Adil Rami, who is of Moroccan descent, expressed his disappointment with the conduct of Senegal national team coach Pape Thiaw. Thiaw's remarks at the pre-match press conference ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations final between Senegal and Morocco generated significant controversy, particularly his criticisms of organizational aspects and his behavior during the game.

Speaking as a guest on the program 'rothen s'enflamme', Rami stated: "Congratulations to Senegal, but I was disappointed by Pape Thiaw, who started 'propaganda' and attempts to influence before the match."

"As a professional coach, especially when you are in an Africa Cup of Nations final, you should be talking about your team, your squad, your mentality, and how you are living the moment, not criticizing Morocco," Rami added.

He concluded: "When you are a coach, it is natural for players to listen to you; we were players, and we understand that."

It is worth noting that the Senegalese national team clinched the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title, defeating Morocco one goal to nil in the final match.

Q&A

Why did Adil Rami criticize Senegal coach Pape Thiaw?

Adil Rami expressed disappointment over Pape Thiaw's pre-AFCON final remarks, calling them 'propaganda' and criticizing Thiaw for focusing on Morocco instead of his own team. Explore Rami's full comments on the matter.