Morocco’s coach, Walid Regragui, has named a squad that introduces an element of fresh talent, with 11 players set to make their debut in the prestigious African football tournament.
As the anticipation for AFCON 2023 builds, the absence of 11 players who participated in the 2022 World Cup has paved the way for a new wave of talent.
Among the 27 players selected by Regragui, a notable 11 are gearing up to experience the fervor of the African Cup of Nations for the first time.
Despite the relative youth of many, some of the debutants bring seasoned experience, with the oldest being defender Yahya Attiat-Allah (28 years old, Wydad Casablanca) and Amine Harit (26 years old, Olympique de Marseille).
A particular standout in the list is Amine Harit, who, despite showcasing his skills at the global stage during the 2018 World Cup, has yet to partake in AFCON.
His inclusion comes on the heels of an impressive season start with Olympique de Marseille in France.
The influx of new faces is spread across all positions, breaking the pattern traditionally observed in such tournaments.
l Mehdi Benabid (AS FAR) is the sole debutant among goalkeepers. The midfield sees the largest contingent of newcomers, with Amir Richardson (Stade de Reims), Oussama El Azzouzi (FC Bologna), Ismail Saibari (PSV Eindhoven), Bilal El Khannouss (KRC Genk), and the aforementioned Amine Harit. In the attacking department, Amine Adli (Bayer Leverkusen) and Chadi Riad (Betis Sevilla) bring their promising talent to the forefront.
The infusion of new blood, despite its lack of experience in AFCON, injects an exciting dimension to Morocco’s campaign in Ivory Coast.
As the football world watches with anticipation, these emerging stars aim to make a lasting impact and contribute to Morocco’s quest for continental glory.
