Tottenham cancelled a deal to sign Sofyan Amrabat earlier in 2022 – now, the Morocco international could genuinely win the World Cup Golden Ball.
What’s the story?
Well, it was Alfredo Pedulla who revealed that Spurs were holding constructive talks with Fiorentina over a deal for Amrabat back in January.
However, Fabio Paratici pulled the plug on the deal after coming to an agreement with Juventus over the signing of Rodrigo Bentancur.
Of course, nobody can begrudge Spurs for doing so, as the Uruguay international has been superb since swapping Turin for north London.
However, it is now starting to look as if Tottenham made a huge mistake in cancelling the deal for Amrabat.
The 26-year-old has been one of the stars of the World Cup in Qatar, playing a colossal role at the base of midfield as Morocco defeated Belgium in Group F before beating Spain 3-0 on penalties in the Round of 16.
Amrabat was at it again earlier today as Morocco made footballing history with a 1-0 win over Portugal, becoming the first African side ever to reach the semi-finals of the World Cup.
As FotMob shows, the Fiorentina No.34 made eight recoveries against Portugal, as well as four clearances and two tackles on an evening where he completely shacked the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Joao Felix and Rafael Leao.
Amrabat can win Golden Ball after Tottenham snub
You may argue that Amrabat needs to win the tournament if he has any chance to lifting the Golden Ball – given to the best performing player at the World Cup.
However, FIFA awarded the Golden Ball to Luka Modric – formerly of Tottenham – after he guided Croatia to the 2018 World Cup final against all odds, so there is certainly a chance for Amrabat to win it regardless of what happens from this point on.
Morocco reaching the semi-final is a phenomenal achievement alone, and even if he doesn’t kick another ball in Qatar, Amrabat would have a seriously strong case for the Golden Ball.
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