Wydad Athletic, one of Morocco's most storied football clubs, is aiming to reclaim its position among the country's top teams. The club, founded in 1937, has a rich history with 22 national championship titles, nine Throne Cup wins, and three CAF Champions League titles. Under the leadership of President Ibrahim Al-Asri and Coach Paulo Sergio, a 58-year-old Portuguese tactician, Wydad is determined to restore its former glory.
Coach Paulo Sergio, who began his coaching career in 2003, has managed several Portuguese clubs, including Sporting Lisbon and Vitória Guimarães. He has also coached teams in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Iran. Sergio's experience in Asian and Arab leagues will be valuable in adapting to Moroccan football. His appointment as Wydad's coach marks his first foray into African football, and he faces the challenge of leading a team with high expectations.
Wydad has made significant signings in the transfer window, including Yahia Attiyat Allah from Russian club Sochi, Yahia Jabrane from Emirati club Ajman, and Ayman Al-Hosni from Libyan club Al-Swehli. The club has also acquired other talented players, such as Rashid Ganimi, Hamza Jenan Allah, and Salah Eddine Asoufi. These new recruits are expected to bolster the team's chances of success in the upcoming season.
The club has also witnessed several departures, including Abdelali Al-Mohammadi to Moroccan club Kawkab Marrakech, Walid Al-Sabar to Bahraini club Al-Khaldiya, and Suleiman Moalimou to Tanzanian club Simba. Other players, such as Noraldine Amrabat, Wassam Benyedder, and Hakim Ziyach, have also left the club. Wydad's squad has been revamped to address the team's shortcomings and improve its performance.
Wydad's probable lineup for the upcoming season includes Mehdi Ibnabid, Rashid Ganimi, Genan Allah, Isouf Dayo, Yahia Attiyat Allah, and Soufiane Heitli. The team's technical staff, led by Coach Sergio, will be working to integrate the new players and develop a cohesive strategy for the season. With a mix of experienced and young players, Wydad is expected to be a formidable force in Moroccan football.
In the previous season, Wydad finished fifth in the Botola Pro League with 43 points from 13 wins, four draws, and 13 losses. The team's performance was below expectations, and the club is eager to improve its standings in the upcoming season. With a strong squad and experienced coaching staff, Wydad is determined to reclaim its position among Morocco's top teams.
The upcoming season will be a crucial test for Wydad's ambitions, and the team will be seeking to make a strong statement in the Botola Pro League and the CAF Champions League. With a renewed squad and coaching staff, Wydad is poised to make a significant impact in Moroccan and African football.
Key points
- Wydad Athletic is seeking redemption after four trophyless seasons.
- Coach Paulo Sergio has been appointed to lead the team to success.
- The club has made significant signings in the transfer window to bolster its chances.
