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Rabat – Spanish media shed light on Morocco’s squad heading to the 2026 FIFA World Cup under coach Mohamed Ouahbi, who announced his list on Tuesday.
Mundo Deportivo highlighted how the Atlas Lions hope to be as prominent as they were in Qatar 2022, when they made history by reaching the semifinals.
The Spanish newspaper, however, emphasized the absence of one of the 2022 FIFA World Cup heroes: Sofiane Boufal.
Ouahbi stressed that Boufal, who was present in the camp, remains a good player.
“He has a strong personality, but I was looking for specific roles on the wings, and that is part of our game plan,” Ouahbi said.
Marca also zoomed in on Morocco’s squad and highlighted the inclusion of two players from Real Betis, Abde Ezzalzouli and Sofiane Amrabat.
“The winger [Abde has been one of the most important players in Manuel Pellegrini’s squad this season,” Marca said, citing his 15 goals and 13 assists.
“He has been a key figure in helping the Verdiblancos return to the Champions League,” Marca added.
As for Amrabat, the Spanish media showed a little excitement, recalling his serious ankle injury, which kept him out of several matches.
It noted, however, that Betis set its own record with six players called up for a single World Cup edition.
“In addition to the two Moroccans, Ricardo Rodríguez has been confirmed with Switzerland, Bakambu with the Democratic Republic of Congo, Cucho Hernández with Colombia, and Alvaro Fidalgo, already in camp with the Mexico national team,” the report added.
In another report, Marca also emphasized how the World Cup in Qatar served as Morocco’s statement of intent as a “new emerging power,” saying that the country has a large talent pool.
It notably highlighted Brahim Diaz, who is eager to make a statement after his missed penalty during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.
“The big question is whether he will play from the right wing or whether Mohamed Ouahbi… will hand him the keys to the attacking midfield role after settling on a 4-2-3-1 formation in the last international break,” the report adds.
AS also posted on the squad, maintaining that coach Ouahbi selected his players based on what they can contribute to the group and their ability to represent Morocco at the tournament.
Morocco is in Group C at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, alongside Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti.
Morocco’s opener against Brazil will be on June 13.
