Achraf Hakimi’s call, Nayef Aguerd’s commitment: Morocco’s injured leaders rally the squad

Achraf Hakimi and Nayef Aguerd, both nursing injuries and unsure about their 2025 AFCON availability, have taken strong steps to back Morocco’s national team from within, despite physical setbacks keeping them off the pitch.

A video release from the Royal Moroccan Football Federation on Monday showed Hakimi joining the squad remotely from Paris.

The Paris Saint-Germain full-back, who suffered a significant left ankle sprain and missed Morocco’s recent friendlies against Mozambique and Uganda, made sure distance did not silence his voice.

He spoke directly to teammates ahead of the Atlas Lions’ training camp, delivering encouragement, tactical camaraderie, and personal motivation — paying particular attention to younger players adapting to the national setup.

Supporters reacted quickly to the clip, praising his leadership at a time when questions continue to surround his fitness ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled from December 21 to January 18.

While doctors monitor his recovery, Hakimi continues to lead, making clear that influence does not require cleats on grass.

Nayef Aguerd, meanwhile, offered a different kind of statement. The Moroccan centre-back, who left Marseille’s match against Brest due to injury, did not retreat into isolation.

Instead, he made a conscious decision to join Morocco’s camp in person so the national medical team could conduct a full assessment.

He currently manages pubalgia, a condition that specialists say could keep him out for several weeks.

Yet Aguerd chose presence over absence, proximity over distance, team over self.

His decision resonates inside the squad. Coaches and players describe Aguerd’s approach as leadership through action rather than slogans.

He sits injured, but he does not detach. He stays close, communicates constantly, and leads without demanding attention.

With Morocco holding growing concerns over the fitness of several core players, the actions of Hakimi and Aguerd carry weight beyond morale.

They underline a culture that head coach Walid Regragui has nurtured since Morocco’s memorable 2022 World Cup run — a culture built on unity, accountability, and collective spirit.

The tournament clock ticks louder every day, but Morocco still counts one advantage many teams lack: leaders who lead even when they cannot play.

𝐂𝐀𝐏𝐈 Achraf Hakimi salue les joueurs et leur souhaite bonne chance ! 🥹

🇲🇦❤️‍🩹 pic.twitter.com/Cvh0x9aW9Q

— FRMF Xtra (@FRMFXtra) November 10, 2025