Tarek Sektioui, the head coach of Morocco’s U-23 national football team, has drawn attention from the Syrian Football Federation following his historic run with the Atlas Lions at the 2024 Paris Olympics, according to a report from Qatari football-focused media WinWin.
Sektioui led the Moroccan U-23 team to third place in Paris, marking the best performance in Morocco’s Olympic history.
The report indicates that the Syrian Football Federation has identified Sektioui as their top choice to lead the senior national team.
The Federation is reportedly preparing an official offer, with plans to approach Sektioui as soon as possible to discuss terms.
The 47-year-old is a former standout in the Moroccan national team, and had a distinguished playing career in Europe.
He transitioned to coaching with roles at various clubs, most recently with Maghreb de Fès, before taking over Morocco’s Olympic team.
As of now, Sektioui has returned to Morocco’s capital, Rabat, following the Olympic campaign, and no formal discussions have taken place with Syrian officials.
Under Sektioui’s leadership, the Atlas Lions took the spotlight during the Olympic Games. The team topped their group in the group stage, and stormed past the USA to the semifinals.
Despite losing to Spain, the Moroccan team became the first Arab team to win the bronze medal after a commanding 6-0 victory against Egypt.