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Shock news sees Newcastle player confirm contact with MLS clubs over imminent move

6 years ago
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In a surprise move, Achraf Lazaar has indicated he is on the verge of moving to the MLS.

The Newcastle defender says that there are three MLS clubs interested in signing hm.

The big driving force for the potential move is the World Cup, according to the defender.

Achraf Lazaar declaring ‘I want to be at the World Cup with Morocco.’

Lazaar last played for his country in October 2016 in a World Cup qualifier against Gabon (ended 0-0).

Similar to Hatem Ben Arfa not so long ago, Achraf Lazaar has found himself in a position where he can’t play football.

Serie A club Benevento made clear to the player that he wasn’t wanted in the second half of this season and wouldn’t be named in their official squad in early February. Having already played for Newcastle back in August 2017, Achraf Lazaar was in a position whereby he was hindered by the FIFA rule of not being able to play for more than two clubs in one season.

Hatem Ben Arfa sat out the remainder of the 2014/15 season without any football. However, at the time it was said that he did consider a short spell in America to give him some football.

The MLS season started in March 2018 and because their timings are out of sync with European leagues, Achraf Lazaar clearly believes he can play in America if making an agreement and sorting out the ‘red tape’.

Good luck to him but making the Morocco squad at this summer’s World Cup might be asking a bit much, even if he gets an MLS club and has a few decent games.

In the last 23 months Achraf Lazaar has only started six league games.

Achraf Lazaar speaking to Gazzamercato.it:

“I want to be at the World Cup with Morocco.

“Representing my country is the greatest satisfaction and I want to be at the World Cup with Morocco, as that would be a dream.

“Now I will do everything I can to earn my chance.

“Unfortunately, I have been pushed out of the Benevento squad.

“Coming here was a bad decision and I wouldn’t do it again, even if I got to know the extraordinary President Vigorito. I still respect him, despite the decision they have made.

“I have nothing against Coach Roberto De Zerbi, as he made his choices.

I belong to Newcastle and must think about what is best for my career and right now I need playing time.

“I can confirm that there are three clubs who are interested in MLS, but I prefer to respect those clubs, and not name the ones who contacted me.

“It is not easy purely in terms of red tape to go to America but with my new agent Roberto De Fanti we are seeking the best solution.

“I really miss the Morocco squad, as I played during the qualifiers for the World Cup and will do everything to get my place in the side.

“I haven’t been the usual Lazaar in recent months, but I have matured a great deal, I was a kid when I first became known and now I am a man.”

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