Moroccan midfielder Neil El Aynaoui faces debut delay amid lingering injury concerns
Moroccan midfielder Neil El Aynaoui’s eagerly anticipated debut with the national team appears to be further postponed following a setback in his recovery from injury, casting doubt over his availability for upcoming fixtures.
After sustaining a sprained left knee during RC Lens’ recent encounter against Marseille, the 22-year-old was forced off the pitch in the 62nd minute, dealing a blow to his aspirations of representing Morocco on the international stage.
Lens coach Franck Haise confirmed El Aynaoui’s absence for the remainder of the season, citing the injury sustained in the Ligue 1 clash.
The timing of El Aynaoui’s injury exacerbates concerns within the Moroccan camp, as the talented midfielder’s availability for the national team’s June gathering hangs in the balance.
His absence from the upcoming fixtures against Zambia and Congo for the World Cup qualifiers could prove to be a significant setback for the Atlas Lions.
This recent setback adds to a series of missed opportunities for El Aynaoui to make his mark with the Moroccan national team. Despite being earmarked for a call-up, his recurrent delays in joining the squad have frustrated coach Walid Regragui, who expressed his concerns following previous postponements.
In a stern warning issued after Morocco’s match against Mauritania, Regragui emphasized the need for El Aynaoui to prioritize his commitment to the national team over club obligations.
The coach’s remarks underscore the urgency of the situation, with decisions regarding El Aynaoui’s future involvement in the national team contingent upon his willingness to make himself available for selection.
As Morocco prepares for crucial World Cup qualifiers, the uncertainty surrounding El Aynaoui’s availability raises questions about the team’s midfield depth and tactical options.
With pivotal fixtures on the horizon, the national team management faces a challenging dilemma as they weigh the potential impact of El Aynaoui’s absence on their campaign aspirations.
🔴 FIN DE SAISON pour Neil El Aynaoui, qui souffre d’une entorse au genou gauche. 🤕
Coup dur pour le RC Lens, en lutte pour une place européenne. 😬
Les Lensois affronteront Lorient, Rennes puis Montpellier.
🗞️ @lequipe pic.twitter.com/zK9UactFAE
— Vibes Foot (@VibesFoot) May 3, 2024
