2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Crystal Palace defender Chadi Riyad set to return to Morocco squad

Morocco head coach Walid Regragui has opted against recalling Crystal Palace defender Chadi Riyad for the Atlas Lions’ upcoming friendly against Bahrain and the 2026 World Cup qualifier against Congo.

Riyad, who has been sidelined for months following ligament surgery, was considered a strong defensive option as he awaits his first appearance for Palace since returning from injury.

However, Regragui decided to delay his return to the national team setup after consulting with the player and his club.

“Regragui was hoping to see Riyad back after playing a few matches with his team,” a source revealed.

“But his coach’s insistence on extending the recovery period, coupled with the excellent form of Adam Masina at Torino and Nayef Aguerd at Marseille, convinced him to wait.”

The 21-year-old, an Africa U-23 Cup of Nations winner with Morocco, remains firmly in Regragui’s long-term plans.

The national coach is expected to include him in the November training camp as part of preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.