Morocco midfielder Azzedine Ounahi set for three months injury lay-off

Morocco have suffered a major setback after midfielder Azzedine Ounahi sustained a thigh injury that could keep him out of action for two to three months.

The Panathinaikos midfielder was forced off the pitch on a stretcher during his side’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Asteras Tripolis in the Greek Super League on Sunday, October 18.

Despite the convincing win, the injury to Ounahi has raised concerns for both his club and the Moroccan national team, with initial assessments suggesting the midfielder could face a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

According to reports, preliminary medical examinations have revealed an injury to the biceps femoris muscle, one of the muscles located at the back of the thigh. However, further tests are required to establish the full extent of the damage and determine how long he will be unavailable.

Initial estimates indicate that the 26-year-old could be sidelined for between two and three months, although his definitive recovery timeline will depend on the results of the additional examinations and his response to treatment.

Such a lengthy absence would represent a significant setback for Panathinaikos, who will be without one of their midfield options as they continue their campaign in domestic competition.

Ounahi has been working to establish himself as an important figure in the Greek side’s midfield, and his injury comes at an unfortunate time following Panathinaikos’ impressive performance against Asteras Tripolis.

The Moroccan international’s potential absence will also be a major concern for the Atlas Lions as they prepare for their upcoming international assignments.

Morocco are expected to be without the midfielder for the November international break, when the team will feature in the third and fourth matchdays of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Ounahi’s absence would deprive the North African side of an experienced midfield option, with the technical team potentially forced to explore alternative solutions to maintain balance and creativity in the middle of the pitch.

The injury also raises questions about his availability for Morocco’s subsequent fixtures, depending on how quickly he recovers and returns to full fitness.

For now, Panathinaikos and the Moroccan national team will await the results of further medical examinations before making a clearer assessment of the midfielder’s recovery prospects.

Should the initial estimates prove accurate, Ounahi faces a challenging period of rehabilitation as he works towards returning to competitive football.