Morocco boss Ouahbi explains cautious approach to Achraf Hakimi

Morocco manager Mohamed Ouahbi has defended his limited use of Achraf Hakimi during the latest international break, saying the decision was taken to reduce the risk of a recurrence of the defender’s thigh problem.

Hakimi, 27, was called up despite the injury concern and remains a key figure for Morocco, with 103 caps and 12 goals. However, Ouahbi managed his captain’s involvement carefully across the three matches.

The Paris Saint-Germain right-back was suspended for Morocco’s 2-0 win against Gabon on 25 September. Four days later, he came on for the final 21 minutes of the 0-2 match against Lesotho in the CAN 2027 qualifiers, replacing the injured Noussair Mazraoui.

Hakimi was then left on the bench for Sunday’s 1-1 friendly draw with Mali.

Speaking at a news conference, Ouahbi said his selection decisions had been guided by prevention rather than a lack of confidence in Hakimi.

The Morocco manager also highlighted how effectively the team’s replacements had performed in the full-back’s absence. He praised the younger members of the squad for taking their opportunities and demonstrating that they could contribute at international level.

Ouahbi’s comments appeared to refer in particular to Ali Maamar and Zakaria El Ouahdi, who were among the players to benefit from Hakimi’s reduced involvement.

The coach also underlined the strength of the national team’s pool of players, suggesting Morocco have a wide range of options available across the squad.

However, Ouahbi said the team still needed to improve the understanding and connections between its players. While the squad contains considerable depth, he stressed the importance of developing stronger links on the pitch as the group continues to work together.