Sofyan Amrabat opts out of Morocco selection while Mohamed Wahbi remains manager

Sofyan Amrabat has said he will not make himself available for Morocco while Mohamed Wahbi remains head coach, but the Ajax midfielder stressed that he has not retired from international football.

The 30-year-old announced his decision in a statement on Instagram, while declining to explain the reasons behind it.

“Out of respect for the national team and everyone concerned, I prefer to keep the reasons for this decision to myself,” said Amrabat.

The former Morocco regular described representing his country as “the greatest honour of my career” and said his commitment to the national team had remained unchanged since his first call-up 12 years ago.

“Since my first call-up 12 years ago, I have given everything I could for my country and worn the national team shirt with pride,” he said. “My love for Morocco and what this team represents to me will never change.”

Amrabat added that stepping away had been “an extremely difficult decision”, but said he did not feel able to continue playing for Morocco under the current manager.

“Therefore, I have decided not to make myself available for selection as long as he remains in charge of the coaching staff,” he said.

The midfielder was also keen to make clear that his international career could resume 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,” he said.

Amrabat wished his team-mates, described as his “brothers”, and members of the coaching and administrative staff well. He also said he would continue to support the Atlas Lions from outside the squad.

“I will remain the team’s biggest supporter and will back you with the same passion I have always shown on the pitch,” he said.

He concluded by thanking Morocco supporters for their affection and backing, adding: “Whether I am on the pitch or supporting you from among you, my love for my country will remain constant and unchanged.”

Amrabat joined Ajax during the summer transfer window on a free transfer. He had previously been playing for Real Betis, where limited appearances affected his match readiness.

He was a key member of the Morocco squad that finished fourth at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and has won 78 international caps.

Wahbi became Morocco manager in March, succeeding Walid Regragui. Amrabat started two matches under Wahbi and made three further appearances as a substitute.

Wahbi left Amrabat out of his first squad for the March international break because the player was not considered ready after his limited involvement with Real Betis. The midfielder was then recalled for the most recent international break before the World Cup in June.

Amrabat’s statement means he is unavailable for Morocco for as long as Wahbi remains in charge, although his wording leaves open the possibility of a return if the coaching situation changes.