Fouzi Lekjaa Unveils the Moroccan Model and Calls for a New Football Dynamic Between Africa and Europe
The upward trajectory of Moroccan football is the result of methodical work and a carefully thought-out strategic vision, far removed from any fleeting success. This was the central message delivered by Fouzi Lekjaa, President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), in an interview with the French magazine France Football.
According to him, the policy pursued by the FRMF is rooted in a logic of sustainable construction, based on clear pillars: infrastructure development, structuring of training centers, and the professionalization of the entire football ecosystem. “The objective was never a one-off success, but the building of a solid and coherent system, from grassroots training to the highest level,” he explained.
Training, the Cornerstone of the Moroccan Project
Fouzi Lekjaa placed particular emphasis on investment in youth, especially the age group between 10 and 20 years old, which he considers decisive in a player’s development. This orientation has been accompanied by a gradual strengthening of institutional structures, without breaking away from existing achievements, but rather within a framework of continuous improvement and stability.
The federation president also recalled that this global vision was not limited to the senior men’s national team. It has encompassed all components of national football: women’s football, youth national teams, and futsal, reflecting a clear determination to reduce the gap with the world’s leading football nations through the modernization of methods and the qualification of human resources.
An African Model Based on Governance and Continuity
Addressing African football, Lekjaa acknowledged the persistent gap with Europe, which he attributed more to issues of governance, organization, and project continuity than to a mere lack of financial resources. Faced with this reality, Morocco chose to develop its own model, built on institutional stability, international-standard infrastructure, and controlled integration within its continental and global environment.
The 2030 World Cup, a Symbol of an Unprecedented Rapprochement
The co-organization of the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal was presented as a historic turning point. For the first time, Africa and Europe will join forces to host a global event, illustrating a new era of cooperation and mutual trust.
In this context, Fouzi Lekjaa raised the possibility of joint competitions between African and European clubs and national teams. According to him, the question is no longer one of feasibility, but of designing a balanced model capable of enhancing the attractiveness of African football, multiplying opportunities for its talents, and ensuring relationships based on respect and fairness.
Morocco as a Driving Force of African Football
In conclusion, the president of the FRMF affirmed that the Kingdom does not limit itself to hosting major competitions, but aspires to play a structuring role in the development of African football, through the sharing of expertise, the improvement of governance practices, and sustained investment in human capital.
Translated from Abderrazzak Boussaid’s French article – le7tv
