Achraf Hakimi returns to individual training ahead of Morocco’s international fixtures

Morocco have received a boost before the September and October international break, with Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi returning to individual training after suffering a thigh injury.

Hakimi’s return was reported by beIN Sports, which said the Morocco international had taken part in individual work for the first time since being injured.

The defender missed Paris Saint-Germain’s victory over Brest after appearing to suffer a hamstring problem during the match. The French club later confirmed that Hakimi had sustained a minor injury to his right thigh.

“After suffering a slight injury to his right thigh during last night’s match against Brest, Achraf Hakimi will undergo medical treatment for two days, with a further medical examination to be carried out at the end of this period,” Paris Saint-Germain said in a statement published on its official website on Monday.

Hakimi’s progress comes shortly before Morocco manager Mohamed Ouahbi’s squad is due to begin preparations for three international matches.

Morocco will face Gabon and Lesotho in the first and second rounds of qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. The Atlas Lions will also play a friendly against Ghana during the same period.

New faces in the Morocco squad

Ouahbi has selected several players for their first call-ups to the senior national team.

Among them is Yasser Zabiri, the Racing Santander forward who has made a strong start in the Spanish league, scoring six goals in six matches. Abdellah Ouazane, goalkeeper Alaa Bellaarouch, Sofiane El Fouzzi and Tawfik Bentayeb have also been included for the first time.

The squad also features several established members of Morocco’s recent teams. Goalkeepers Yassine Bounou and Munir El Kajoui, as well as Hakimi, have been selected alongside Nayef Aguerd and Abdessamad Ezzalzouli.

Ezzalzouli’s inclusion comes despite his recent controversy involving a shirt supporting Ceuta, and the criticism he received over the incident.

Hakimi’s return to training offers Morocco encouragement as the squad prepares for a busy international period, although the report does not state whether the defender will be fit to feature in the upcoming matches.