Nael El Aynaoui withdraws from Morocco squad for Niger clash over fitness issues

Morocco midfielder Nael El Aynaoui has withdrawn from the national team camp after medical examinations confirmed he was not fit to feature in the Atlas Lions’ upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Niger.

According to Radio Mars, El Aynaoui has been experiencing ankle discomfort, leaving him physically unprepared for the two matches scheduled during the November international break.

Following consultations with the player and his club, Morocco’s medical staff authorized him to leave the camp and continue his recovery.

Head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has subsequently called up Strasbourg midfielder Samir El Mourabet as his replacement.

El Aynaoui’s absence affects Morocco’s midfield options

El Aynaoui’s withdrawal represents a setback for Ouahbi, given the midfielder’s growing importance to the national team.

Born in Nancy, France, in 2001, El Aynaoui began his career at AS Nancy before joining RC Lens in 2023. His performances in French football earned him a move to Italian side AS Roma in 2025.

The midfielder opted to represent Morocco internationally rather than France and has established himself as one of the options competing for a regular place in the Atlas Lions’ midfield.

Known for his physical presence, work rate and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively, his absence leaves Ouahbi with another adjustment to make ahead of the Niger double-header.

El Mourabet handed opportunity

Ouahbi has turned to 20-year-old Samir El Mourabet to fill the vacancy left by El Aynaoui.

Born in Strasbourg, the midfielder developed through the French club’s youth system before progressing to its senior team.

His inclusion provides Morocco with another midfield option as the coaching staff manage several injury-related withdrawals during the international break.

The call-up also offers El Mourabet an opportunity to strengthen his position within the national team setup.

Morocco prepare for Niger double-header

The Atlas Lions will face Niger twice during the November international window in the third and fourth rounds of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.

The first match is scheduled for November 13 at the Mohammed V Sports Complex in Casablanca, with the return fixture taking place on November 17 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. Both matches will kick off at 8pm.

Morocco head into the two encounters after winning their opening qualifying matches against Gabon and Lesotho by identical 2-0 scorelines.

Ouahbi will now look to maintain that winning momentum despite the latest injury setback.

The national team is also scheduled to train on Thursday, November 12, at the Mohammed V Sports Complex in Casablanca, beginning at 6 pm.

The session will be partially open to the media, with journalists allowed to cover the first 15 minutes from 5:45pm for photographs and interviews.