Interview with Fathi Jamal, new technical director for Moroccan football

2005-12-22

In an interview with Magharebia, new national technical director for Moroccan football Fathi Jamal talks about his assignment.

By Hassan Benmahdi for Magharebia in Casablanca – 22/12/05

[File] Jamal ponders a task he considers difficult, but not impossible.

Magharebia: Today, you are the head of technical direction for Moroccan football. What are your priorities?

Fathi Jamal: As part of my responsibilities, I must take charge of all aspects of the technical direction of national football. As for the national "A" team and Olympic team, they are looked after by national coach Philippe Troussier. I know full well that it is a difficult task, but it is not impossible, because the national football federation will bring into play all the means necessary for the technical administration team to have the best possible conditions to do its work well.

Magharebia: What have you set out in your action plan?

Jamal: We shall be setting out our action plan around 20 January 2006. Here, we want to set out a new structural platform. We have to restructure and re-dynamise national technical direction.

Magharebia: What are the main points you have discussed with Troussier?

Jamal: So far, I have not had any official meetings with Troussier. So far, I have only had a courtesy call on the telephone with him. I think that over the days to come, we shall try to make direct contact so that we can decide on a joint approach and work together for a top-flight national team to be proud of.

Magharebia: As part of the African Nations Cup in Egypt 2006, what do you think of the group in which Morocco finds itself alongside Egypt, Côte d'Ivoire and Libya?

Jamal: It's a difficult group, but that doesn't mean that Morocco with all its potential doesn't have a chance of reaching the second round. I think Troussier knows this and he will ensure that Moroccan football is seen in the best light. Remember that we were in the same, or nearly the same, situation when we competed in the last African Nations Cup competition in Tunisia and we were able to reach the final. There's everything to play for in this group.

Magharebia: Troussier recently called together several developing players from the national league. What's the significance of this move?

Jamal: All Moroccan players are treated equally. It is the right time for these men to confirm their status as international players. We have vast potential, but they do not have the social and psychological support.

Magharebia: What's the situation with the Moroccan national junior team?

Jamal: This represents really significant human potential, but these young players must have support at every level. Our problem is an educational one. I think my new mission will fit into this. I shall try to establish action programmes via setting up frameworks and competitions. Basically, I'll try my best to contribute to the development of Moroccan football.