Former sporting director Rachid Ghaflawi has outlined the reasons behind his departure from Al-Merrikh SC, describing a brief tenure marked by ambitious plans, internal disagreements and a decision to avoid conflicts that could hinder the club’s progress.
In an interview with WinWin, the Moroccan official said he had hoped to build a long-term project at the club but ultimately concluded that the timing was not right for his vision to succeed.
Ambitions Cut Short
Ghaflawi expressed disappointment at the limited duration of his role, stressing that he had joined with clear objectives aimed at improving the club’s sporting structure and performance.
He said his plans were focused on guiding the team towards the group stage of the CAF Champions League, built on what he described as a structured and strategic approach.
“We set ambitious plans to reach the group stage of the African Champions League . I have ample experience and have supervised major clubs at the global level.”
However, he suggested that a lack of alignment over key decisions prevented those plans from being fully implemented.
Disagreements Over Technical Direction
A central issue highlighted by Ghaflawi was his assessment of the club’s technical setup, particularly regarding head coach Darko Novic.
“I wrote my opinion frankly and according to what my conscience dictates regarding the Serbian coach Drako Novic. I am not saying that he is a bad coach, but he is not the coach for this stage, and he cannot lead the team to the desired successes.”
Ghaflawi indicated that his candid evaluation led to disagreements within the club, particularly with individuals who supported the coach’s continued role.
“Frankly, I clashed with those who want to benefit from his continued presence, and I do not want to get involved in side conflicts or distractions.”
Reports Ignored and Responsibilities Expanded
The former sporting director revealed that he had submitted detailed reports to the club’s management after observing both the first team and reserve squad, including during matches in Rwanda and domestic competition.
“I submitted an additional report to the club’s management after I personally witnessed the performance of the first team in Rwanda and the reserve team in the first stage of the Premier League competition . What I want to say is that the report is not to be dismissed, but rather it is presented for discussion and deliberation by specialists in sports management.”
He also described a situation in which he was asked to take on additional responsibilities, including overseeing the reserve team, after proposing the appointment of a dedicated coach.
“If the management refused to contract a coach under my supervision, and of course I am responsible for my choice, and the report was dismissed and was not discussed, I do not want to get into side conflicts and distractions.”
Respectful Exit Despite Challenges
Despite the disagreements, Ghaflawi emphasised that his departure was handled respectfully and that he holds no personal grievances against the club’s leadership.
“I have no problems with the club’s management. I left respectfully and I wish them success in their journey.”
He also expressed appreciation for the club’s supporters and reiterated his belief in Al-Merrikh’s potential to return to a stronger position.
“I also have special appreciation, respect and love for the club’s fans. I am well aware that Al-Merreikh is a great team that should return to its normal state and regain its glory, and from the bottom of my heart I wish them success and good fortune.”
A Club at a Crossroads
Ghaflawi suggested that Al-Merrikh is currently in a transitional phase that requires clear planning, defined roles and adherence to professional specialisation.
“Frankly, one of the most important elements for the success of any project is adherence to specializations. The club is going through a transitional stage that needs to organize things, and good planning according to a strategy that requires qualified people for evaluation.”
Unfinished Project Leaves Questions
Rachid Ghaflawi’s departure highlights the challenges of implementing structural reforms in a complex football environment. While his tenure was brief, his comments point to deeper issues within the club’s decision-making processes. As Al-Merrikh moves forward, the ability to align vision, leadership and execution may determine whether the club can achieve the success he once envisaged.
