Rabat – Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi unveiled on Tuesday his final squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, sparking immediate debate among fans and analysts.
While the list confirms several expected names, it also omits some of the country’s most recognizable figures in recent years.
Big names missing
Among the most surprising omissions is Youssef En‑Nesyri, one of Morocco’s heroes during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The striker, remembered for his decisive goal against Portugal in the quarterfinals, was not included in Ouahbi’s final selection despite his experience and record with the national team.
Another major absence is Hakim Ziyech, whose creativity and leadership defined Morocco’s run to the semifinals four years ago.
His exclusion, alongside En‑Nesyri’s, suggests a shift toward a younger, more dynamic squad as Ouahbi looks to refresh the team’s attacking identity.
Sofiane Boufal, known for his flair and dribbling, also misses out after being part of the provisional list.
His absence adds to the sense that Morocco is entering a new phase built around different profiles and tactical priorities.
New faces and fresh direction
Ouahbi’s final selection includes several players who have impressed in recent months: Ayoub El Kaabi, Soufiane Rahimi, Brahim Diaz, Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, Chemsdine Talbi, Yassine Gessime, and Ayoube Amaimouni.
Their inclusion points to a more flexible and attack‑minded approach.
Meanwhile, players such as Souffian El Karouani and Oussama Targhalline were left out despite solid club performances, reflecting the intense competition for places within Morocco’s growing talent.
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Young prospects, including Eliesse Ben Seghir, Amine Adli, and Ilias Akhomach also failed to make the cut. This decision will likely fuel discussion among supporters who expected at least one of them to feature.
Several names from the provisional camp, Imran Louza,, Tawfik Bentayeb, and Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal, and U20 World Cup winners Yassir Zabiri and Othmane Maamma, were also omitted from the final list.
Experience still central
Despite the changes, Ouahbi has kept Morocco’s core intact. Yassine Bounou, Achraf Hakimi, Noussair Mazraoui, Nayef Aguerd, Sofyan Amrabat, Azzedine Ounahi, and Brahim Diaz remain key pillars of the team.
Their presence ensures stability and leadership as Morocco heads into the global tournament.
The mix of established stars and emerging talents reflects Ouahbi’s intent to balance continuity with renewal, maintaining experience while opening space for new energy and ideas.
Morocco will compete in Group C at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, alongside Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti.
The Atlas Lions will begin their campaign on June 13 against Brazil at MetLife Stadium, followed by Scotland on June 19 at Gillette Stadium, and Haiti on June 24 at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium.
The team’s final training camp starts on May 29, bringing together the full squad ahead of these crucial fixtures.
Read also: Official: Morocco’s World Cup 2026 Squad is Here
