Morocco star Sofyan Amrabat temporary quits international football amid coaching row

Morocco international Sofyan Amrabat has announced that he will make himself unavailable for national team selection for as long as current head coach Mohamed Ouahbi remains in charge.

The experienced midfielder confirmed his decision in a statement shared on his Instagram account on Tuesday, describing it as one of the most difficult decisions of his career.

Amrabat, who has represented Morocco for the past 12 years, stressed that his decision should not be interpreted as retirement from international football.

“Representing Morocco has been the greatest honour of my career. Since my first call-up 12 years ago, I have given everything for my country and worn the national team shirt with pride,” Amrabat said.

“My love for Morocco and everything this team means to me will never change.”

The midfielder, however, revealed that he no longer feels able to continue playing for the Atlas Lions under the current technical leadership.

“This has been a very difficult decision, but I do not feel able to continue representing the national team under the current head coach. I am therefore making myself unavailable for selection while he remains in charge,” he added.

Amrabat declined to publicly disclose the reasons behind his decision, insisting that he preferred to keep the matter private out of respect for the national team and everyone involved.

“Out of respect for the national team and everyone involved, I prefer to keep the reasons behind this decision private,” he said.

The midfielder was quick to clarify that he has not brought an end to his international career and remains open to representing Morocco again in the future.

“I want to be clear: I am not retiring from international football, and I am not closing the door on representing Morocco again,” Amrabat stated.

The experienced campaigner also sent an emotional message to his teammates, the technical staff and Moroccan supporters, pledging to remain one of the national team’s biggest supporters despite his temporary withdrawal.

“To my teammates, my brothers, and all the staff, I wish you every success. I will remain the team’s biggest fan, supporting you with the same passion I have always shown on the pitch.

“Thank you to the Moroccan fans for your love and support. Whether on the pitch or cheering alongside you, my love for my country will always remain the same.”

Amrabat’s decision comes as a major development for the Moroccan national team, with the midfielder having been an important figure for the Atlas Lions in recent years.