Morocco: The defense decimated by injuries, Regragui seeks solutions before the 2025 CAN

The central defense is the main source of concern. The coach has multiplied the tests in this position during the recent gatherings, a sign of a lack of stability and conviction in his current choices. This situation revives bad memories, in particular the cascade of defensive injuries before the semi-final of the 2022 World Cup and the mistakes made during the last CAN in Côte d’Ivoire. The challenge for Regragui is therefore to find a reliable solution before the start of the competition in Morocco.

The avenues explored by Regragui in the face of absences

The coach is facing a real challenge. Pillars like Jawad El Yamiq and Achraf Dari are injured and unavailable, while uncertainty hangs over Nayef Aguerd, who could be spared to avoid a worsening of his injury. Adam Masina’s inactivity at his club adds an additional obstacle to a system that relies on the complementarity of these players.

Faced with this situation, new options are being studied. Ismaël Baouf, the young defender who stood out during the U20 World Cup in Chile, is cited as a potential reinforcement. The return of former captain Romain Saïss, who has regained his form in Qatar, is also being considered to bring his experience.

Finally, Anass Salah-Eddine (PSV Eindhoven), who has recently completed his administrative formalities to join Morocco, and Omar El Hilali, often called up but little used, could also have the opportunity to show themselves during these two test matches. These matches, although without any accounting stakes, constitute an opportunity to experiment with new formulas and try to build a balanced backline before the big continental event.