Former Moroccan international Yunes Belhanda has reopened discussions about his exclusion from the Moroccan national team's 2022 World Cup squad, admitting that he still harbors a grudge towards coach Walid Regragui. Belhanda, who currently plays for Qatari club Al-Sailiya, expressed his disappointment and frustration with Regragui's decision, citing a lack of communication or explanation for his omission. The 36-year-old footballer had previously enjoyed a good relationship with Regragui.
Belhanda revealed that Regragui's appointment as coach had rekindled his hopes of returning to the national team after a two-year absence. He had worked under Regragui previously and maintained a good rapport with him. However, Belhanda was surprised to find himself excluded from the final squad list. He claimed that Regragui had contacted him before the World Cup, leading him to believe that he had a chance to participate.
What upset Belhanda the most was not the decision to exclude him but the lack of communication or explanation from Regragui. He stated that he had attempted to contact Regragui on the day the squad list was announced but received no response. Belhanda felt that a straightforward conversation about the decision would have helped him accept it more easily.
Belhanda's disappointment extended beyond his personal situation, as he admitted to having lost interest in watching the national team's matches during the World Cup. He stated that he did not watch the games and was no longer invested in the team's performance. His discontent persisted even during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final against Senegal.
In an interview with the "Rothen Club" program, Belhanda expressed his lingering resentment towards Regragui, stating that he still does not understand the reasons behind his exclusion. He emphasized that Regragui never made an effort to contact him or provide an explanation for his omission. Belhanda's comments were reported by the Spanish newspaper "Marca".
Belhanda's international career with Morocco spans 59 matches, which he played between 2009 and 2022. At 32 years old, he felt that he was still in his prime and had a lot to offer the team. His exclusion from the World Cup squad was a significant blow to his aspirations.
The incident has left a lasting impact on Belhanda's relationship with the national team. While he wishes his teammates well, he has struggled to regain his emotional investment in the team's performances. Belhanda's comments have sparked discussions about coach-player relationships and communication in Moroccan football.
Key points
- Yunes Belhanda still feels a grudge towards coach Walid Regragui for excluding him from the 2022 World Cup squad without explanation.
