Herve Renard reveals World Cup childhood dream

by Phumzile Ngcatshe

Wednesday May 23, 2018. 13:00

Morocco national team coach Herve Renard has explained his decisions regarding team selection for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

After revealing his list of 23 players, Renard told Medi 1 TV that he cannot always select the best players.

The French manager is well aware of the high responsibility that he will face in Russia and said he doesn’t always select the best players, but those who serve the interests of the whole group.

“We do not always pick the top 23. We select a group of 16 or 17 players and then people who are able to not get bored for a month, a month and a half,” he said.

“That is to say that states of mind are not mandatory and that the collective interest is primary.

“I feel like I’m going to live something I’ve been dreaming of since I was a kid. Participating in the World Cup is a pride.

“Morocco is certainly expecting great things from its national team. I think we are on the right track.

“This is what makes you want to go to the World Cup not to disappoint people, not to make sad a country like Morocco who expects great things from his national team or at least a very good image - I think we are on the right track.”

Although he has come under criticism for leaving Sofiane Boufal and Walid Azaro out of the list, the ex-Zambia boss said he will take advice from experienced people.

“Since I participated in six African Cups, I have a little experience. Now there are parameters that I will have to master a little more for this World Cup,” he added.

“I’m going to meet people to take advice, to win and to make sure that we improve on some small details that will make the difference.”

The Atlas Lions are in Group B and will meet Iran on June 15, Portugal five days later and wrap up their group assignments against Spain on June 25.