Ali Maamar faces battle to secure Morocco place after senior debut

Ali Maamar has made a promising start to senior international football, but the Anderlecht right-back still has work to do before he can be considered Achraf Hakimi’s established deputy for Morocco.

The 21-year-old was promoted to the senior squad after helping Morocco win the 2025 U20 World Cup, having played a key role in the side managed by Mohamed Ouahbi. His elevation was therefore a natural next step rather than an unexpected gamble, with Ouahbi already familiar with his qualities.

Maamar was given his opportunity after Hakimi was suspended. He started Morocco’s 2-0 win over Gabon before retaining his place for the 1-1 friendly draw with Mali.

His progress had begun before Ouahbi took charge. Maamar had been brought into the senior-group environment ahead of the 2026 World Cup and was also beginning to establish himself at club level with Anderlecht.

The Gabon match provided an encouraging first test. Maamar was disciplined defensively, committed in his work and did not look overwhelmed by the occasion. He grew into the game as it developed.

Mali offered a more demanding examination. Maamar made repeated runs and worked to provide an outlet on the right, but his attacking contribution was limited. His forward movements also created more room behind him, particularly against an opponent capable of threatening quickly in transition.

That performance does not undermine the reasoning behind his promotion. Maamar is playing regularly for Anderlecht, has gained significant experience in Belgium’s top level and came through a demanding U20 World Cup campaign.

However, success at youth level and a place in a Morocco side now established among the world’s best teams require different qualities. The senior game brings greater pace, physical demands and tactical pressure, all of which Maamar must continue to adapt to.

The biggest obstacle is the strength of the competition for the position. Hakimi remains the clear first choice when available, while Noussair Mazraoui can also operate on the right. Zakaria El Ouahdi has already become part of the rotation, and Omar El Hilali is continuing to push for more opportunities.

The pool has grown further with the recent arrival of Adam Bakoune in the Morocco set-up, adding to an already crowded position.

For Maamar, being dependable alone will not be enough to secure regular selection. He must offer more in the final third while improving his management of the spaces left behind him when he advances.

By handing him responsibility immediately, Ouahbi has chosen to speed up Maamar’s development. The potential is clear, but two starts do not yet make him Hakimi’s official deputy. His future involvement will depend on his performances for Anderlecht, Hakimi’s return and the continuing competition within the Morocco squad.