Morocco’s AFCON 2023 squad narrows, Coach Walid Regragui faces the intricate task of selecting the final 27 players from an initial pool of 55. With a delicate balance between seasoned veterans, emerging talents, and those navigating injuries, the unveiling on Thursday at 10:00 GMT is poised to reveal the Atlas Lions’ formidable lineup for the continental showdown.
Among the certainties are the stalwarts who have consistently formed the backbone of Regragui’s strategy.
Figures like Yassine Bounou, Romain Saïss, Hakim Ziyech, and others have been fixtures in past gatherings.
While their inclusion seems secure, the fitness of key players like Sofiane Boufal, who recovered just in time, and the potentially injured Noussair Mazraoui still linger as uncertainties.
The emergence of the next generation has been a notable trend, with young talents such as Bilal El Khannouss, Abde Ezzalzouli, Ismael Saibari, and Amir Richardson becoming familiar faces in the national team.
Notably, Amine Adli and Chadi Riad, both displaying exceptional form at the club level, are anticipated additions.
However, the selection conundrum is evident in those players whose fate hangs in the balance.
Jawad El Yamiq, often a supportive presence in defense, and Yahia Attiat-Allah, a previous favorite from the Moroccan championship, face challenges in securing their spots.
Meanwhile, players like Oussama El Azzouzi, Abderrazak Hamdallah, and Tarik Tissoudali, each with unique circumstances, await Regragui’s verdict.
The race for the third goalkeeper spot intensifies, with Mehdi El Benabid, Anas Zniti, and Amine El Ouaad vying for the coveted position.
Notably, the rumored interest in Neil El Aynaoui from RC Lens has sparked curiosity, hinting at a potential surprise in Regragui’s final selection.
As Morocco eagerly awaits the revelation of its AFCON 2023 squad, Regragui’s choices will undoubtedly shape the team’s trajectory in the upcoming tournament.
The announcement on December 28 will answer lingering questions and set the stage for the Atlas Lions’ pursuit of continental glory in Ivory Coast.
