Mehdi Benatia has officially returned to football, this time as a television pundit for Canal+. The former Moroccan international, who left Olympique de Marseille earlier this year, confirmed in a recent interview that he is open to a comeback if the right project aligns with his ambitions, emphasizing his independence from any obligation. His move adds a outspoken voice to Canal+'s analysis team, which also welcomed fellow Moroccan football figure Walid Regragui as a new recruit.
Benatia’s comeback to football broadcasting
Benatia’s statement, made during Aurélien Tchouaméni’s show "The Bridge," highlighted his readiness to return to the sport should a compelling opportunity arise. He stressed that he "owes nothing to anyone" and would only rejoin if the project suited his needs and if Canal+ president Nasser required his expertise. This declaration signals a potential shift from his previous playing career to a role where he can influence tactical discussions and share his experiences on the pitch.
Canal+ strengthens its analysis team
Canal+ unveiled its refreshed pundit line‑up at a recent press conference held on the new "Michel Platini" set. The network announced the addition of Benatia, known for his bold opinions during his stint with OM, as well as Walid Regragui, another prominent figure in Moroccan football. Both appointments are expected to bring diverse perspectives to the channel’s coverage of domestic and international matches, reinforcing Canal+'s commitment to high‑quality football analysis.
Prior consulting experience at beIN SPORTS
Benatia is no stranger to television commentary. He previously served as a consultant for beIN SPORTS, where he honed his ability to break down tactics and share incisive insights with viewers. This background, combined with his on‑field achievements, positions him as a valuable asset for Canal+'s studio discussions, especially as the network seeks to differentiate its programming in a competitive market.