Sofyan Amrabat makes Morocco boycott pledge under Mohamed Wahbi

Sofyan Amrabat says he will make himself unavailable for Morocco while Mohamed Wahbi remains head coach, but insists he has not retired from international football.

The Ajax Amsterdam midfielder made the announcement on Tuesday in a lengthy statement posted on his official Instagram account, saying he could not continue representing the Atlas Lions under the current manager.

Amrabat described playing for Morocco as “the greatest honour” of his career. He recalled receiving his first international call-up 12 years ago and said he had always given everything he had for his country with pride.

“My love for Morocco and everything this team represents to me will never change,” Amrabat wrote.

The midfielder acknowledged that stepping away had been a difficult decision, but said he no longer felt able to continue wearing the national shirt under Wahbi.

“I therefore will make myself unavailable for selection and call-up to the national team as long as he remains in his position,” he added.

Amrabat did not explain the specific reasons behind his decision. Instead, he said he wanted to keep them private out of respect for Morocco, the national team and everyone involved.

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

The statement appeared designed to prevent his decision being interpreted as a permanent withdrawal from international football. Amrabat stressed that he had not decided to retire and that he could represent Morocco again in the future.

“I want to be clear, I have not decided to retire from international football and I will not close the door on representing Morocco again,” he said.

He ended his message by offering his support to his team-mates and the wider Morocco set-up, despite his decision to step away while Wahbi is in charge.

“To my team-mates and brothers in the national team and all the staff, I wish you the very best. I will remain the team’s biggest supporter and support you with the same passion I have always shown on the pitch,” Amrabat wrote.

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

Amrabat’s announcement comes only days before Morocco’s two Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying matches against Gabon and Lesotho. The fixtures are scheduled for 25 and 29 of this month.

The midfielder’s decision means his immediate international future is now dependent on how long Mohamed Wahbi remains Morocco head coach. He has left open the possibility of returning to the national team, while making clear that he will not be available for selection during Wahbi’s tenure.