Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has officially submitted his preliminary 55-man squad to FIFA ahead of the 2026 World Cup, in line with the governing body’s selection deadline.
The list represents the first step in shaping Morocco’s final tournament squad, combining experienced internationals with emerging talents as the national team prepares for football’s biggest competition in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
According to information from team sources, the expanded selection reflects a deliberate balance between established figures and new prospects, with several players returning to the group after missing recent international friendlies against Ecuador and Paraguay.
Among the notable inclusions is defender Nayef Aguerd, who is currently working his way back to full fitness following injury. His presence in the preliminary squad underlines his continued importance to Morocco’s defensive plans ahead of the tournament.
Also included is experienced goalkeeper Munir Mohamedi, who returns to the national setup after a period away from international duty. His recall adds further depth to Morocco’s goalkeeping options as the coaching staff evaluates its final choices.
In attack, one of the standout additions is Watford youngster Othmane Maamma, whose recent performances have earned him recognition at international level and a place in the extended squad.
The list also features Ayyoub Bouaddi, who recently committed his international future to Morocco despite interest from France. His inclusion highlights the federation’s continued success in securing promising dual-nationality players.
Several key players who featured in recent Africa Cup of Nations matches and international friendlies also remain part of the extended group, ensuring continuity as the team prepares for final selection.
FIFA regulations require each nation to submit a preliminary squad of between 35 and 55 players, including at least four goalkeepers. These lists remain confidential and form the only eligible pool from which final squads must be selected.
The final 23–26 man squad must be confirmed by Tuesday, 2 June, including three goalkeepers. FIFA also stipulates that only players named in the preliminary list may be selected for the tournament, except in rare cases of serious injury or illness shortly before the competition begins.
Only goalkeepers are permitted flexible replacement rules during the tournament in the event of injury or incapacity. Morocco will now continue their preparations as Ouahbi begins the difficult task of trimming his expanded squad ahead of the World Cup.
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