The Old Firm derby between Celtic and Rangers this Sunday is set to be watched by millions worldwide, but one attendee in particular will have a special mission. According to reports from the Scottish media, Abdel Bouhazama, assistant to Morocco’s head coach Walid Regragui, will be in the stands at Celtic Park.
Bouhazama’s focus will be on assessing the performance of Moroccan defender Igamane, who has been attracting attention with his displays in Scottish football. The evaluation will play a key role in determining Igamane’s potential inclusion in Regragui’s plans for the Moroccan national team.
Igamane, whose recent performances have earned him praise from fans and pundits alike, is considered one of the rising stars in Moroccan football. His adaptability, composure, and strong defensive instincts have made him a standout figure in the Scottish Premiership.
The 25-year-old has already expressed his desire to represent his homeland at the international level, but with Morocco’s defensive lineup featuring elite players from top leagues, breaking into the squad will be no small feat.
“Igamane has been on our radar,” Bouhazama said in a brief statement. “This game is an opportunity to see him in a highly competitive environment. The match is a true test of a player’s mental and physical qualities.”
For Igamane, Sunday’s clash represents more than just a chance to secure bragging rights in one of football’s fiercest rivalries. With Bouhazama in attendance, the defender will have the chance to showcase his skills to the Moroccan coaching staff, who are planning their next squad selections ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and the African Cup of Nations.
Walid Regragui, who led Morocco to an extraordinary semi-final run at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, has emphasized the importance of scouting talent from across the globe. The national team now boasts a mix of established stars and emerging talents, with the coaching staff casting a wide net to find players capable of contributing to their ambitious goals.
Bouhazama’s report on Igamane will likely be crucial in shaping Regragui’s decision. If the defender impresses, it could open the door to his first international cap—a dream for any player.
Sunday’s Old Firm derby promises to be an enthralling encounter, with the stakes as high as ever in the battle for Scottish supremacy. For Igamane, it’s an opportunity to make a statement—not just to Celtic fans, but to Morocco as well.
Bouhazama will be watching closely, his notepad ready to record every detail of the defender’s performance.
