Morocco 2026 World Cup Squad: Aguerd Injury Concerns Emerge

Invited Friday, May 15 on the SNRT set, Mohamed Ouahbi detailed the national team’s program as the competition approaches. Players will gather from May 22 to 26, a period that will end with a closed-door test against Burundi. The coach will announce that same evening the final list of 26 players heading to the United States. After a break for Eid al-Adha, the squad will face Madagascar on June 2, fly out the next day for America, then face Norway on June 7 in New York for one last warm-up match.

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The squad is already largely defined, with around twenty players assured of making the trip. Key players like Yassine Bounou, Achraf Hakimi and Brahim Diaz will be part of it, as will Ayyoub Bouaddi, who just opted for Morocco. However, the health status of Nayef Aguerd, affected by bone inflammation, is causing concern for the coaching staff. The coach clarified that the defender’s return will be complex, unlike Munir El Kajoui who should return to competition quickly. The last attacking spots could be decided between players like Soufiane Benjdida, Taoufik Bentayeb and Yanis Begraoui.

On the pitch, Morocco’s strategy will revolve around flexibility and control. "I like to have a somewhat hybrid style. One that adapts to the opponent’s characteristics," explained the new head of the Atlas Lions. He stressed the need to dictate the pace of the match, adding: "I want my players to control the game even if ball possession isn’t in our favor." This tactical approach has already been tested against Ecuador’s intensity and Paraguay’s low block during the last gathering.

On Bladi.net : Morocco-Norway on June 7th? The last test of the Atlas Lions before flying to the USA

To implement this vision, the coach surrounded himself with a technical team combining continuity and fresh blood. Video analysts as well as goalkeeper coach Omar Harrak were retained. For assistant positions, Youssef Hadji was chosen for his experience as a former international and his energy. He will be supported by Portuguese João Sacramento. The latter was hired to bring distance and serenity during critical moments, a cold-headed pressure management deemed essential by the coach.

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