jordan pulse -

Jamal Sellami, Moroccan football coach, born 1970 in Casablanca, starts playing career with Olympic Club Casablanca before moving to Raja Casablanca. He later turns professional in Turkey with Besiktas and represents Morocco at 1998 World Cup in France. He retires from playing at age 33.

Sellami begins coaching career with Moroccan clubs including Difaa El Jadida, Hassania Agadir and FUS Rabat. He then coaches Morocco U17, U20 and local-based national team, leading latter to African Nations Championship title in 2018.

He continues career with Raja Casablanca, winning Moroccan league title in 2019–2020 season, then returns to coach FUS Rabat until June 2024. In same month, Jordan Football Association announces his appointment as head coach of Jordan senior national team.

Birth and upbringing

Jamal Sellami born 6 October 1970 in Derb Milan district of Casablanca. In late 1976, he moves with family to Al Inara neighbourhood, where he starts playing football.

In 1983, he joins Association Lait club, progressing through youth ranks until 1994–1995 season, before promotion to Olympic Club Casablanca first team.

Speaking about challenge of combining education and football, Sellami says he maintains academic excellence alongside sporting career, earning baccalaureate certificate in science stream.

He attributes balance to family support, especially from his father, who encourages his football path and removes obstacles to pursuing sporting ambition.

Playing career

Sellami starts as right winger with Olympic Club Casablanca, then shifts to centre-back position that later defines his career. He progresses through age groups to reach first team in 1994–1995 season.

Technical changes at club following appointment of Brazilian coach prompt temporary departure before he later returns at invitation of technical staff, benefiting from ability to balance sporting career with academic achievement.