Badou Zaki visits Wydad training

Badou Zaki, the newly appointed coach of the Jordanian national football team and a revered figure in Moroccan football, made a special visit to the training grounds of Wydad Casablanca. Zaki, a legend for Wydad, observed the team's practice session.

During his visit, Zaki paid particular attention to Jordanian international Nizar Al-Rishdan, who recently signed with Wydad. The atmosphere was reportedly friendly, highlighting the special relationship between the former international goalkeeper and the club and its fans. Wydad Casablanca shared photos of the visit on their official Facebook page, accompanied by a welcoming message for Zaki.

This visit comes as Zaki prepares to officially assume his duties with the Jordanian national team, known as "Al-Nashama." The Jordanian Football Association recently finalized a one-year contract with Zaki, which is renewable. He is set to be formally introduced at a press conference scheduled for August 20.

The Jordanian FA is counting on Zaki's extensive experience to lead "Al-Nashama" through their upcoming challenges. A primary focus will be preparations for the 2027 Asia Cup, which will be hosted in Saudi Arabia. Zaki boasts a distinguished career as both a player and a coach. As a player, he was a key member of the Moroccan team that reached the Round of 16 in the 1986 World Cup and was named African Footballer of the Year in the same year. He also had a notable stint with Spanish club Real Mallorca.

As a coach, Zaki guided the Moroccan national team to the final of the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations. He has also managed several Moroccan clubs, including Wydad Casablanca, Fath Union Sport, Kawkab Marrakech, and Ittihad Tanger, in addition to coaching the national teams of Sudan and Niger. Zaki's return to Wydad's complex marks a new chapter in his connection with the club, this time focusing on supporting his fellow Jordanian player, Al-Rishdan, while awaiting the start of his official mission with the Jordanian national team.