Morocco sweating over the fitness of winger Abdessamad Ezzalzouli ahead of 2025 AFCON

Morocco winger Abdessamad Ezzalzouli is in danger of missing the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as he continues to recover from an ankle injury sustained during the UEFA Conference League final against Chelsea.

The 22-year-old Real Betis player was forced off in the 54th minute of the match, which Chelsea eventually won.

While initial scans suggested the injury was not serious, Ezzalzouli’s recovery has taken longer than expected.

He was initially tipped to join the Atlas Lions for last month’s friendlies against Benin and Tunisia.

However, head coach Walid Regragui opted to exclude him from the squad to ensure a full recovery and avoid any setbacks.

Ezzalzouli remains a key figure in Morocco’s long-term plans, having earned 23 caps at senior level with three goals and three assists.

He notably captained the U23 team to the 2023 U-23 AFCON title and led them to a bronze medal finish at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Real Betis are keeping a close watch on his rehabilitation. Although the club initially downplayed the injury’s severity, sources reveal Ezzalzouli is still using crutches as he struggles with persistent ankle pain.