Morocco suffer major setback as Ezzalzouli faces World Cup doubt after knee injury

Morocco have been hit with a significant injury concern on the eve of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after winger Abdessamad Ezzalzouli was forced off injured during a warm-up match against Norway.

Initial medical assessments indicate the Real Betis attacker has sustained a lateral knee ligament injury, raising fears that he could miss the tournament entirely.

The 22-year-old was substituted after picking up the problem in a physical contest during the friendly, with further scans expected to determine the full extent of the damage.

Early indications suggest the injury may rule him out of contention for selection, pending confirmation from medical tests.

Should the prognosis be confirmed, Morocco are expected to remove Ezzalzouli from their World Cup squad and name a replacement in his place.

The situation has prompted internal discussions over possible call-ups, with Sofiane Boufal and Othmane Maamma among those being considered as standby options to fill the vacancy.

The timing of the setback is particularly damaging for Morocco, who are already managing squad fitness concerns ahead of the tournament.

Ezzalzouli has been regarded as an important attacking option in recent international campaigns, and his potential absence would represent a blow to their offensive depth.

Further updates are expected once the player undergoes additional medical evaluation in the coming days.