Morocco’s Coach Regragui Says Ziyech’s Absence from AFCON Qualifiers is Without Controversy

Rabat – Walid Regragui addressed the media today during a press conference held at the Mohammed VI Complex in Sale, where he discussed the absence of Hakim Ziyech from Morocco’s squad for the upcoming African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

The national team coach explained that Ziyech’s lack of competitive play in recent months was the primary reason for his exclusion.

“I was surprised by the controversy surrounding Ziyech’s non-call-up. I contacted the player and realized that he had been without competition for almost two months before the announcement of my list,” Regragui said.

“I think he must quickly regain his form to return to the national team. There is no controversy regarding his non-call-up. There is no problem with him,” the coach added.

In another update, Regragui confirmed the addition of Reda Belahyane to the squad. Belahyane will replace Amir Richardson, who has been forced to leave the national squad due to injury.

“It’s always unfortunate to lose a player to injury, but we have to move forward with the available players,” Regragui noted.

As for other injuries, Regragui sent his best wishes to both Akhomach and Adli, who are recovering from their respective setbacks. “I hope they both recover quickly,” he said.

Last Tuesday, Regragui named his 26-man squad for the upcoming AFCON qualifiers. Morocco will face Gabon on November 15 in Franceville, followed by a match against Lesotho on November 18 in Oujda.

The squad sees the return of several key players, including Noussair Mazraoui, Yahia Attiat-Allah, Amir Richardson, Adam Masina, and Brahim Diaz, all of whom have been instrumental for the team in previous competitions.