CAN 2025: Walid Regragui excludes Hakim Ziyech and unveils Morocco’s final squad

Hakim Ziyech is not included in the group selected for this Africa Cup of Nations organized in the Kingdom. This non-selection decided by Walid Regragui is explained by the player’s lack of competition, recently transferred to Wydad and still in the process of physical recovery after a long period of inactivity. The coach has favored immediately operational elements to withstand the pressure of a home tournament.

The offensive responsibilities will rest on the shoulders of Brahim Diaz. The Real Madrid star will lead a fiery attack, supported by Ayoub El Kaabi, whose devastating efficiency with Olympiacos makes him one of the most prolific scorers in Europe. The forward line displays rare density with the presence of Youssef En-Nesyri, Soufiane Rahimi, Ilias Akhomach, Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, Eliesse Ben Seghir and the young Chemsdine Talbi.

The defensive backbone remains faithful to the 2022 World Cup stalwarts. Yassine Bounou will guard the goal, protected by a central defense where Romain Saïss and Nayef Aguerd will have to guide the new generation embodied by Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal. The flanks will be occupied by the indispensable Achraf Hakimi and Noussair Mazraoui, supported by Adam Masina, Mohamed Chibi, Jawad El Yamiq and Anass Salah-Eddine.

The midfield relies on stability and technique. Sofyan Amrabat and Azzedine Ounahi retain the staff’s confidence to orchestrate the game. They are accompanied by Bilal El Khannouss, Ismael Saibari, Neil El Aynaoui and Oussama Targhalline. Hamza Igamane and Youssef Belammari remain on standby on the reserve list, ready to fill any last-minute withdrawals in this 26-player squad tasked with offering Morocco its second African star.

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