Morocco midfielder Azzedine Ounahi has spoken publicly for the first time since confirming an injury that ruled him out of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations.
Ounahi addressed speculation suggesting that he was deliberately injured by a teammate during a training session ahead of Morocco’s match against Tanzania.
The Atlas Lions midfielder firmly dismissed the claims, insisting the injury was not caused by any contact.
I would like to clarify with complete transparency that this injury occurred without any contact. It is an injury that happens in the world of football and has no relation to any teammate, and it was necessary to clarify this point.”
Despite his setback, the 24-year-old urged his teammates to push on in his absence, pledging his full support from the sidelines.
“I am with you, present in heart and mind, with the spirit of a warrior. I will support you to fight together until the last breath so that we may seize this title, God willing, and dedicate it to the Moroccans.”
Morocco head coach Walid Regragui also commented on the situation, explaining that the injury had been an ongoing issue.
“Unfortunately, Ounahi suffered a leg injury, which he had been experiencing during Girona and which worsened during training. We promised him that we would all fight to make him happy with the cup, which is the dream of all Moroccans.”
