Wahbi on Absence of Youth World Cup Winners from Squad: "I Don't Give Gifts... Decisions Made Without Emotion"

T.E (Elbotola)

27 May 2026at14:30

National coach Mohamed Wahbi addressed the absence of several players who excelled with the Moroccan U20 national team, following their Youth World Cup triumph, from the senior national team squad for the 2026 World Cup.

During a press conference, Wahbi commented on the exclusion of some of the Youth World Cup-winning players from the squad, stating: "It's not a matter of experience, but rather what they demonstrated daily, and what they delivered when they were with us in the camp, during training and matches. This is the sole basis we rely on. We have called up other young players who weren't at their best, but they are still young."

He continued: "What I will also not do is give any gifts to anyone. I have always said it, I don't give gifts. We try to be as objective as possible. I make decisions with the help of my staff, without emotion, without any sentimentality."

He added: "With a cool head, we remain objective. We consider what is best for us and best for the team. Based on playing style and physical condition, we made these selections accordingly."

He further explained: "These young players still require further development. We also have an U23 national team, and we must not forget that only a few players transition directly from the U20 category to the first team in the French League."

He concluded: "We are working with both groups, the senior team and the U23s, and of course, they will receive other opportunities to join us."

Q&A

Why are some Moroccan U20 World Cup winners not in the senior squad?

National coach Mohamed Wahbi explained that selections are based solely on daily performance and what players deliver in training and matches, not past achievements. He stressed that he does not give "gifts" and makes decisions objectively.

What criteria does Mohamed Wahbi use for senior squad selection?

Mohamed Wahbi makes decisions with his staff, emphasizing objectivity and a cool head, without emotion or sentimentality. Selections are based on what is best for the team, considering playing style and current physical condition.

What is the future outlook for the young players not currently in the senior squad?

These young players still require further development and have opportunities with the U23 national team. Wahbi confirmed that both groups, the senior team and U23s, are being worked with, and they will receive other chances to join the senior squad.