Argentina has reportedly turned down a proposed friendly against Morocco, with FRMF’s offer of around one million dollars falling far short of the roughly ten million previously discussed, according to reports.
The FRMF had reportedly offered around one million dollars to bring the world champions to Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, a sum the Argentine side considered insufficient given the team’s post-World Cup market value.
Earlier discussions had referenced figures closer to ten million dollars, or roughly the same amount in euros, an amount Moroccan sources described as exorbitant for a single friendly.
According to sources close to the negotiations, Argentina’s demands went beyond the base fee, reportedly including business-class travel, high-end accommodation, and additional logistical arrangements for the delegation — conditions some Moroccan sources described as unreasonable for an exhibition match.
No guarantee of Lionel Messi’s participation accompanied the financial request, a factor said to have weighed on FRMF’s decision-making given past experience, including a previous friendly in Tangier where Messi did not play due to injury.
AFA has framed the refusal differently.
Argentine journalist Verónica Brunati reported that the decision stemmed primarily from a desire to give local supporters more opportunities to see the national team following its World Cup triumph, rather than from financial considerations or an assessment of Morocco’s playing squad.
AFA sources said the calendar decision was not linked to the identity of the opponent, but instead reflects a broader restructuring of Argentina’s international schedule as it prioritizes matches on home soil during this period of celebrating its title.
The rejection also fits a wider pattern for FRMF, which has previously declined what it considers disproportionate financial demands for marquee friendlies, citing long-term sporting and financial stability as a priority.
With the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 approaching, Morocco appears to be redirecting resources toward competitive preparation rather than a single high-cost exhibition game.
Neither federation has confirmed further contact on rescheduling the fixture, and Morocco is reportedly exploring alternative opponents for its upcoming international windows, though Moroccan fans still fondly recall memorable World Cup goals scored by the national team during its historic 2022 run.
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