Bruno Génésio, the coach of the French club Lille, praised Moroccan international Nayef Aguerd, his former defender at Rennes, stating that he wished to work with him again due to his technical and mental qualities that make him one of the best defenders in Europe.

In his statements to the French newspaper "Le Parisien," Génésio said: "Aguerd is, above all, a very intelligent player with a naturally strong and leadership personality. He doesn't talk much, but when he does, everyone listens. His behavior on and off the field, his competitive mindset, and his constant desire to win make him a role model."

The Lille coach added, "He is a well-rounded player by all standards—strong defensively, excellent in aerial duels both in defense and attack, and possesses the speed to cover spaces behind the defensive line, along with technical skills that are far above average. All these qualities make him capable of playing at the highest levels without any doubt."

Génésio continued, saying: "I wished he had been with me in Lille, but that wasn't possible for non-sporting reasons. I also know that he, in turn, wanted to work with me again. In any case, I am not surprised by the level he is showing today."

It is worth mentioning that Nayef Aguerd (29 years old) returned to the French league last summer by joining Olympique Marseille, where he quickly established himself as a key pillar of the team's defense, following a professional stint in the English Premier League with West Ham. He had also previously played for other French clubs, most notably Dijon and Rennes, before moving to the Premier League.