Hakim Ziyech may be preparing for his final outing in Morocco’s colours, with the upcoming Arab Cup potentially serving as a farewell stage for the influential midfielder.
Absent from the national team since September 2024, Ziyech’s international future appears increasingly uncertain.
The 31-year-old winger, who now plays for Al-Duhail in the Qatari league, last featured for the Atlas Lions in friendlies against Lesotho and Gabon, matches in which he notably captained the side.
Yet despite that leadership role, he has not received a call-up since.
A combination of limited playing time during his stint at Galatasaray and a subsequent move to the Gulf region has played a part in his exclusion.
However, tensions between Ziyech and Morocco head coach Walid Regragui have further complicated the situation.
The strained relationship became public when Ziyech took to social media to voice his frustrations, casting doubt on any reconciliation.
Now, a unique opportunity presents itself with the Arab Cup of Nations, scheduled from 1 to 18 December 2025.
Morocco is expected to field a team composed largely of domestic and regional-based players, opening the door for Ziyech’s inclusion.
According to updates from FRMF Xtra, the national federation’s technical staff, led by Tarik Sektioui, is keeping a close eye on Ziyech’s form and fitness.
His experience and tactical maturity are viewed as potential assets for Morocco’s campaign in the tournament.
Despite this glimmer of opportunity, a return to the senior A team appears unlikely. Regragui has publicly stated that selection will be based purely on current performance and sporting merit, not past achievements or reputation.
Though he maintains that the door remains open to all, the growing presence of younger, emerging talents has further narrowed the path for Ziyech’s return.
Ziyech, who has earned 64 international caps and contributed 25 goals and 12 assists for Morocco, remains a beloved figure among fans.
His role in Morocco’s rise to prominence, particularly during their historic World Cup campaigns and continental tournaments, is etched into the nation’s football history.
But with the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations set to be hosted on home soil, his absence from recent squads all but rules out his participation in what would have been another marquee tournament.
In this context, the Arab Cup could serve as a final chapter for one of Morocco’s most creative and iconic players.
While it may not carry the same prestige as a World Cup or AFCON, the symbolic weight of one last tournament in Moroccan colours is not lost on fans or the player himself.
For Ziyech, this potential farewell is a moment to reconnect with the team, the supporters and a nation that once pinned its footballing dreams on his left foot.
For Morocco, it is a chance to honour a player who has long stood as a symbol of its footballing ambition, whether or not his journey ends on the grandest stage.
