Hakim Ziyech has once again been left out of Morocco’s squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Niger and Tanzania, raising further questions about his international future.
Despite speculation surrounding a potential retirement, head coach Walid Regragui has clarified that the winger remains under his watch.
Regragui Monitoring Ziyech’s Situation
Ziyech’s continued absence from the national team has fueled discussions, but Regragui insists he is keeping a close eye on the 31-year-old.
The coach recently traveled to Qatar to observe both Ziyech and Romain Saïss during Al-Duhail’s match against Al-Sadd on February 22.
“I traveled to Qatar to assess Hakim Ziyech. He has been a key player for Morocco and has given a lot to the national team,” Regragui stated during a press conference.
“He remains important to us, and I hope he can regain his best form. But he must reach his top level again.”
Ziyech, who recently scored his first goal in Qatar, remains part of Regragui’s plans. However, his return to the squad is far from certain.
Increased Competition for National Team Places
While Regragui has not ruled out Ziyech’s comeback, the competition within Morocco’s squad has intensified.
The former Chelsea star last played for the Atlas Lions on September 9, 2024, in a 1-0 victory over Lesotho during the AFCON 2025 qualifiers.
Since then, emerging talents such as Brahim Diaz, Eliesse Ben Seghir, Osame Sahraoui, and Ilias Akhomach, along with the strong performances of Abde Ezzalzouli and Bilal El Khannouss, have made it difficult for Ziyech to reclaim his place.
With the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations set to take place on home soil from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, Ziyech faces a crucial period ahead. For now, Regragui appears to be prioritizing players who are in peak form.
🗣️🦁Regragui : « Ziyech est un grand joueur, mais il doit retrouver son niveau. » pic.twitter.com/77TyYBZnRW
— Hespress Français (@HespressFr) March 14, 2025
