Romain Saiss was linked with a move to Nottingham Forest in 2018. Last night, the Wolves man suffered World Cup heartache in more ways than one with Morocco.
The Atlas Lions have captured the hearts of their nation in Qatar. The history makers have become the first African country to reach the last four of the World Cup.
Saiss joined Besiktas on a free transfer from Wolves in the summer. His form with the Istanbul-based outfit earned him a place in the Morocco squad for the World Cup.
It was an unreal tournament for the centre-back. He captained the side to famous wins over Belgium, Spain and Portugal in Qatar.
He was instrumental throughout as a semi-final was set up against France. That proved a bridge too far; not just for Morocco but for Saiss as well.
Disaster struck in the 21st minute. Saiss looked inconsolable as he was forced out of the action with a cruel injury, with Morocco trailing 1-0.
The game finished 2-0 and Saiss and his teammates took the plaudits from their ardent fan base. It’s been a superb tournament for them but they will also wonder what might have been.
Morocco have been inspired under the influence of Walid Regragui. They’ve fought with everything they had and really done it for the underdog at the tournament.
Saiss was linked with Forest in 2018
Aitor Karanka was keen to sign the defender when he was in charge ahead of the 2018/19 campaign. Nothing came of it, but Birmingham Live reported interest from Forest in the Wolves man.
The Reds moved on to other targets but he did prove a decent player for Wolves. He made 206 appearances for the club and helped them win promotion to the Premier League during his time at Molineux.
Saiss is a steady player but at 32-years-old this will probably be his final World Cup. He can hold his head high, however, and he’s led his country by distinction out in Qatar over the last six weeks.