Mohamed Ouahbi faces selection headache as seven Morocco players battle injuries

Morocco face a growing injury crisis ahead of their upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Niger, with seven players reportedly struggling with fitness problems just days before coach Mohamed Ouahbi announces his squad.

The Atlas Lions could be without several key members of their team for the two fixtures, with some players facing an uncertain recovery timeline and others seemingly unlikely to be available.

Those currently dealing with injuries include Ismaël Saibari, Ayoub El Kaabi, Soufiane Rahimi, Azzedine Ounahi, Chadi Riad, Soufiane El Fawzi and Ilias Akhomach.

The situation presents a significant challenge for Ouahbi as he prepares to name his squad for the upcoming international assignment. The possible absence of several established internationals could force the Moroccan coach to consider alternative options as he looks to maintain the team’s strength ahead of the qualifiers.

Among the injured players, Akhomach’s situation remains particularly uncertain. The Moroccan winger is experiencing muscular discomfort, but his availability has not yet been ruled out.

His chances of joining the national team will depend on how his physical condition develops over the coming days. Further medical examinations and assessments are expected to provide a clearer picture of his recovery and determine whether he can return in time for the international fixtures.

The uncertainty surrounding Akhomach means there is still a possibility that he could be included in the squad, although his condition will need to improve before a final decision is made.

Ouahbi is scheduled to announce his squad next Wednesday during a press conference at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Maâmora.

The announcement will provide further clarity on the players available for the two matches against Niger and whether any of the injured internationals have recovered sufficiently to earn a place in the squad.

With the qualifiers approaching, the Moroccan coach must now assess his available options and prepare for the possibility of several important absences.

The priority will be to assemble a competitive squad capable of handling the challenge against Niger despite the growing injury concerns within the Atlas Lions camp.