“L’Équipe” Hails Azzedine Ounahi: An Elegant and Consistent Midfielder Who Holds Morocco Close to His Heart

Sure! Here is the translated article:

The French sports daily L’Équipe dedicated a comprehensive and laudatory profile this Friday to Moroccan international Azzedine Ounahi, describing him as a “mobile midfielder who carries Morocco in his heart,” while highlighting the remarkable consistency of his performances in the Lions of the Atlas jersey, just hours before the crucial match against Mali in the second group stage of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025.

In its analysis, the journal compares Ounahi to a “flamingo, or rather a red one, from Morocco,” referencing his natural elegance, technical finesse, and ability to shine in every international encounter. His slender figure and game intelligence consistently stand out on the continental stage.

Consistency in National Team Despite an Often Unstable Club Career

L’Équipe notes that while the 25-year-old midfielder’s club career—especially during his time with Olympique de Marseille—has sometimes faced phases of inconsistency, his reliability with the Moroccan national team remains undeniable. Ounahi therefore establishes himself as a key asset in the Lions of the Atlas setup, regardless of his club context.

The French daily also cites national team coach Walid Regragui, who does not hide his admiration for his player:
“Azzedine is the tempo regulator. When he is at his best, we become a very strong team,” stated the Moroccan coach, expressing confidence that his midfielder will continue to grow throughout the competition.

A Journey Marked by Adversity and Crucial Choices

Following the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Ounahi’s development was hampered by a serious injury that occurred in March 2023, as well as repeated changes in his playing position. His transfer to Gérone in Spain’s La Liga is highlighted by L’Équipe as a positive turning point, in a league he particularly enjoys and which better suits his technical qualities.

Walid Regragui praises this choice, considering it beneficial for the national team and highlighting the player’s total commitment:
“Azzedine has made many sacrifices and carries a deep love for his country. His priority has always been the national team, ahead of his club. Every time he dons this jersey, he transforms into a different player… With Azzedine, the jersey is never a burden.”

An Indispensable Pillar of the Lions of the Atlas

In conclusion, L’Équipe asserts that “the flamingo has solid feathers,” a metaphor that illustrates Azzedine Ounahi’s mental strength and maturity. Now essential in the Moroccan midfield, the player has become one of the cornerstones of the Lions of the Atlas project, determined to play a leading role in this AFCON held on home soil.

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