Hakim Ziyech remains available for selection with the Moroccan national team, despite months of speculation surrounding his international future.
Reports had suggested that the 32-year-old winger’s time with the Atlas Lions was over following a period of absence, but journalist Soufiane Aboujad now claims the player has not retired from international duty.
According to Aboujad, Ziyech remains hopeful of a recall ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which Morocco will host from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.
Tensions between Ziyech and Morocco head coach Walid Regragui were reported earlier this year, particularly in the lead-up to the team’s fixtures in March.
The former Ajax and Chelsea playmaker declined an invitation to join the national squad, with rumours of a disagreement circulating widely in the local press.
During the same international break, Ziyech posted a cryptic message on social media that many interpreted as a veiled criticism of Regragui and the national team setup.
“They’re going to need you again, make sure you don’t forget how they played with you!” the message read—further fuelling doubts over his willingness to return to the fold.
However, recent developments suggest a thaw in relations.
Aboujad insists that Ziyech has not placed any demands on the coaching staff regarding his reintegration into the team.
In fact, the Dutch-born forward is reportedly eager to be part of the squad for next year’s continental showpiece on home soil.
علمت أن حكيم زياش لم يعتزل اللعب دوليا و لم يشترط أي شيء على الناخب الوطني وليد الركراكي.
زياش يود أن يكون اسمه ضمن قائمة المنتخب المغربي 🇲🇦 في كأس الأمم الإفريقية🏆القادمة.وليد الركراكي على تواصل مستمر مع حكيم زياش. pic.twitter.com/6SOdagQJhE
— 𝑨𝑩𝑶𝑼𝑱𝑨𝑫 𝑆𝑜𝑢𝑓𝑖𝑎𝑛𝑒 | (@AbouJad_Talks) June 23, 2025
Ziyech last represented Morocco on 9 September 2024 in a World Cup qualifier against Lesotho.
That appearance marked his 64th international cap—a hard-fought victory in what would turn out to be his final outing in national colours to date.
Coach Walid Regragui has publicly stated that the door remains open for Ziyech, and reports suggest the two men have maintained contact throughout the player’s time away from the squad.
Despite increased competition for places, the path back into the team remains possible—provided Ziyech regains match fitness and secures regular club football ahead of the tournament.
As anticipation builds for Morocco’s hosting of the Africa Cup of Nations, the potential return of one of their most talented players adds a fresh layer of intrigue to Regragui’s squad planning.
Whether Ziyech will wear the red and green again now rests on form, fitness, and the coach’s final decision.
