World Cup 2026: Morocco risks losing winger Abde Ezzalzouli for high-stakes tournament

Morocco’s 2026 World Cup preparations have been dealt a huge blow, with winger Abde Ezzalzouli now facing the prospect of missing the tournament due to injury.

The 24-year-old sustained a leg injury during the Atlas Lions’ international friendly against Norway at Sports Illustrated Stadium in New Jersey, raising immediate concerns within the Moroccan camp just days before the start of the tournament.

Initial fears have now intensified following the results of preliminary medical examinations. According to reports, Ezzalzouli has suffered a sprain of the medial ligament in his knee, an injury that could keep him out of action for between three and four weeks.

The projected recovery period would effectively rule the attacker out of Morocco’s World Cup campaign, representing a major blow for head coach Mohamed Ouahbi and his technical staff.

Ezzalzouli has become an important figure for the Atlas Lions in recent years thanks to his pace, creativity and ability to unsettle defenders in one-on-one situations. His direct attacking style has often provided Morocco with an extra dimension in the final third, making him one of the team’s most dangerous offensive weapons.

The injury comes at a particularly unfortunate time, with Morocco entering the tournament carrying high expectations after establishing themselves among Africa’s strongest national teams in recent years. Losing a player of Ezzalzouli’s quality could significantly impact the team’s attacking options as they prepare to compete against some of the world’s best sides.

Medical staff are expected to continue monitoring the player’s condition, but the early prognosis has left little room for optimism regarding his participation in the tournament. Unless his recovery progresses much faster than anticipated, Morocco may be forced to continue their World Cup journey without one of their key attacking players.

The news is likely to disappoint Moroccan supporters, who had hoped to see Ezzalzouli play a prominent role on football’s biggest stage. His absence would place additional responsibility on the rest of the attacking unit to deliver goals and creativity throughout the competition.

While Morocco await a final medical assessment, the indications suggest that the winger’s World Cup dream may be over before the tournament has even begun. The Atlas Lions will now be hoping that the remainder of their squad can stay fit as they continue preparations for the global showpiece in the United States, Canada and Mexico.