Leipzig provide positive injury update on Morocco international Neil El Aynaoui

RB Leipzig sporting director Sebastian Schuppan has reassured supporters that Morocco international Neil El Aynaoui has not sustained a serious injury after the midfielder withdrew from the national team camp with ankle problems.

The 25-year-old left Morocco’s training camp on Wednesday after experiencing discomfort, ruling him out of the Atlas Lions’ upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches against Niger.

However, Schuppan has indicated that the midfielder’s condition is related more to accumulated fatigue and physical challenges from recent matches than a significant injury.

Speaking to German news agency DPA, the Leipzig sporting director said:

“It’s not a serious injury. It’s more the accumulation of all the matches he has played, during which he has received many kicks and knocks,” Schuppan said.

“He is simply feeling the strain of the past weeks and months,” he added.

Morocco release El Aynaoui as precaution

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) confirmed that El Aynaoui reported to the national team camp with ankle discomfort.

Following medical examinations on Tuesday, Morocco’s medical staff concluded that the midfielder was not physically ready to participate in the upcoming fixtures.

His release was agreed upon in consultation with the player and RB Leipzig, allowing him to continue his recovery at club level.

Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi subsequently called up Strasbourg midfielder Samir El Mourabet as his replacement for the matches against Niger.

Moroccan midfielder becomes key figure at Leipzig

El Aynaoui has established himself as an important member of Leipzig’s midfield since joining the Bundesliga side on loan from AS Roma in September.

The Moroccan has started all eight of his Bundesliga appearances this season, while also featuring in four Champions League matches and one German Cup fixture.

His loan agreement runs until the end of the season, with Leipzig holding an option to make the transfer permanent for a reported fee of approximately €25 million.

Despite the encouraging update, Leipzig have not provided a specific timeline for his return to competitive action.

The German club are scheduled to resume their Bundesliga campaign against Union Berlin on November 21, with El Aynaoui’s availability depending on his recovery.