Morocco defender Nayef Aguerd assaulted at Marseille airport ahead of international duty

Morocco and Olympique de Marseille defender Nayef Aguerd was attacked by an individual at Marignane Airport on Monday as he prepared to travel home for international duty with the Atlas Lions.

According to BFM Marseille Provence, the 29-year-old was in the VIP lounge waiting to board his flight to Morocco when he was accosted by a man who demanded his phone number and a selfie. Witnesses said the individual, described as appearing mentally unstable, became increasingly aggressive before attempting to slap the defender. Security personnel quickly intervened, preventing the situation from escalating further.

The assailant was detained shortly after by local law enforcement officers and later questioned by police. Aguerd, reportedly eager to rejoin his national teammates, did not immediately file a complaint before continuing his journey to Morocco.

Olympique de Marseille have yet to issue an official statement on the incident, but police sources confirmed that an investigation is ongoing.

Aguerd, who joined Marseille from West Ham United during the summer transfer window, has been a key figure under Roberto De Zerbi, making seven appearances and scoring once. His solid performances have earned him praise for adding defensive composure and leadership to the Ligue 1 side.

The incident comes just days before Morocco resume preparations for their next fixtures, with a friendly against Bahrain scheduled for October 9 and a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Congo on October 14, both at the Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat.

Morocco have already booked their place at the 2026 World Cup after topping Group E of the African qualifiers with a flawless campaign, amassing 21 points from eight matches.

Despite the unsettling episode in Marseille, Aguerd is expected to link up with Walid Regragui’s squad, as the Atlas Lions look to maintain their impressive form ahead of next summer’s global showpiece.