Walid Regragui faces the challenge of replacing Achraf Hakimi as Noussair Mazraoui emerges as the top candidate.

Walid Regragui, head coach of Morocco’s national football team, opened up about the tough situation facing his squad after star right-back Achraf Hakimi suffered a serious injury in PSG’s recent match against Bayern Munich.

Hakimi is already on a recovery program, aiming to rejoin the “Atlas Lions” for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, but the medical staff are closely monitoring his progress in coordination with PSG doctors.

At a press conference at the Mohammed VI Complex, Regragui described Hakimi as “a very important player on and off the pitch.” He added, “The duration of Hakimi’s absence cannot be accurately determined now to discuss whether or not he will participate in the Africa Cup of Nations. Everyone hopes for his return as soon as possible, but he will be with the players to support them from the beginning, even if he is not fully ready to participate,”

Regragui noted it will be hard to fill Hakimi’s shoes at right-back, but is confident other talented players will step up. “It’s hard to replace a player of his caliber, but we have great options,” he said, naming Noussair Mazraoui as the leading candidate, while expressing hope he remains injury free.

He also congratulated Hakim Ziyech on his return and sent best wishes to Wydad AC for signing one of Morocco’s best players. Finally, Regragui praised Casablanca fans, calling them among the best in the world.