Former Morocco International Khalid Boutaib Announces Retirement from Football

Rabat, The Gulf Observer: Former Morocco international striker Khalid Boutaib has announced his retirement from professional football, bringing an end to a career that saw him rise from amateur football to represent Morocco at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Boutaib announced his decision on September 19 through a video message shared on his official Instagram account, in which he reflected on the major milestones of his career and expressed gratitude to the people who supported him throughout his journey.

Unlike many professional footballers, Boutaib did not come through a major football academy. He spent several years combining amateur football with his studies before receiving his first professional contract at the age of 27. His breakthrough came with Gazélec Ajaccio, which gave him an opportunity to enter professional football and compete in France’s top division.

He later enjoyed a notable spell with Strasbourg, where he scored 20 goals during an outstanding season and won the French league title. His performances subsequently helped him earn recognition at international level and a place in Morocco’s national team.

Boutaib became particularly prominent with the Atlas Lions after scoring three goals against Gabon. His performances helped him achieve his ambition of representing Morocco at the World Cup, with the striker featuring at the 2018 tournament in Russia. He also scored against Spain in Morocco’s memorable group-stage encounter.

During his club career, Boutaib represented several teams, including Gazélec Ajaccio, Strasbourg, Yeni Malatyaspor, Zamalek, Le Havre and Pau FC. His final professional experience came with Kawkab Marrakech in Morocco, where he made 15 appearances and scored once during the previous season.

With Morocco, Boutaib earned 26 international caps and scored nine goals. His career is notable for the relatively late transition from amateur football to the professional game and his subsequent rise to the highest level of international competition.

In his farewell message, Boutaib thanked his family, friends, coaches, teammates, technical staff and supporters for their contributions throughout his career, formally bringing his playing career to a close.