Morocco head coach Walid Regragui has clarified that Hakim Ziyech’s omission from the national team’s upcoming training camp is not linked to disciplinary issues.
The Atlas Lions are gearing up for their 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against Niger and Zambia, scheduled for September 5 and 8.
“Ziyech’s absence from the Atlas Lions’ roster has convincing justifications,” Regragui said.
“I know how important Ziyech is to Moroccan fans, but he’s currently without a team after leaving Al Duhail.
“A player cannot be included without a team, yet Ziyech was included in the current expanded list.
“Ziyech has the opportunity to join any club on a free transfer, after which he must shine and regain his technical level.”
The coach revealed that Ziyech had still been named in the provisional list but stressed the midfielder must first secure a new club and rediscover his form.
“There is no truth to any punitive decision against Ziyech. The issue is purely sporting and related to competition standards and participation in matches,” he added.
Morocco will host Niger at the newly built Moulay Abdellah Stadium on September 5 before facing Zambia three days later.
