Akhomach recalled by Morocco as Brahim Diaz fitness concerns emerge

Ilias Akhomach has been added to Morocco’s squad during preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, with the timing of his return raising questions over Brahim Diaz’s fitness.

The Moroccan Football Federation confirmed the Villarreal winger’s arrival on Tuesday without announcing any withdrawal from the squad or explaining why the 22-year-old had been called up after the camp had already begun.

Morocco are preparing at the Mohammed VI Football Complex for two qualifying matches. They face Gabon in Rabat on Friday, 25 September, before travelling to Bloemfontein to play Lesotho four days later.

Akhomach has now rejoined the Atlas Lions, having previously been a regular under former head coach Walid Regragui. The Villarreal player had gradually emerged as one of the leading alternatives to Brahim Diaz in the attacking positions.

However, Mohamed Ouahbi’s arrival after the last Africa Cup of Nations changed the competition for places. The new manager preferred Gessime Yassine, one of his former players at youth level, and Akhomach was left out of subsequent squads.

His recall comes after a promising start to the new season. Akhomach returned to Villarreal following last season’s loan spell at Rayo Vallecano and has featured in each of the club’s first six matches. He also provided two assists in his latest two appearances, underlining his continued value as an option on the wings.

Diaz link remains unconfirmed

The Moroccan Federation has not said that any player has withdrawn from the squad. However, Spanish newspaper AS reported on Tuesday that Brahim Diaz has been dealing with physical problems.

The Real Madrid player is reported to have played his most recent matches while carrying pain and may need a period of rest. There is no official confirmation that Diaz’s situation is connected to Akhomach’s late call-up, but the two players operate in a similar area of the pitch and the timing has inevitably prompted speculation.

A recall to cover for Diaz would also add an unusual twist to their recent history. Shortly after the Africa Cup of Nations, Akhomach and Diaz were involved in a tense incident during a match between Real Madrid and Rayo Vallecano, when Akhomach was on loan at the Madrid club.

The two Morocco internationals confronted one another head to head, creating an unhelpful image of the atmosphere within the post-tournament squad.

That episode now appears to be in the past, while Akhomach’s position in the national-team hierarchy has also changed. This is his first call-up since Ouahbi took charge and ends speculation that the former Barcelona player was engaged in a supposed “boycott” of the national team.

Akhomach now has an opportunity to make an impression. With Gessime Yassine established in Ouahbi’s plans and strong competition for places on the wings, this international break could represent more than simply a return to the Atlas Lions.