Walid Regragui reflects on Lamine Yamal's decision to represent Spain over Morocco

Speaking to Marca, Regragui revealed that Morocco had put together a compelling vision for Yamal, emphasizing the emotional and cultural ties he shares with the North African country. The Moroccan FA also presented the opportunity to be part of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which Morocco will host, and the landmark 2030 FIFA World Cup, which the country will co-host alongside Spain and Portugal.

"Lamine Yamal is a generational star who we tried to get to play for Morocco, but he chose Spain, and we wish him the best of luck. What he does at his age is incredible," said Regragui.

The 16-year-old wonderkid, born and raised in the Rocafonda neighbourhood of Spain, is a product of Barcelona's famed La Masia academy. Though of Moroccan descent, his footballing roots and development have been firmly planted in Spain.

Yamal officially committed to Spain in August 2023 after meetings with the Spanish Football Federation and a personal conversation with Regragui.

"I spoke directly with Lamine Yamal and he was honest with me, and also with the Moroccan Federation," Regragui recalled.

"We tried everything - the project we have with Morocco, the AFCON on home soil, the 2030 World Cup, and the love the country has for Lamine."

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