Neil El Aynaoui pulls out of Morocco squad with leg injury

RB Leipzig midfielder Neil El Aynaoui has withdrawn from Morocco’s squad for their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Niger after suffering a minor lower-leg problem.

The 25-year-old was released from the national team camp following medical assessments, with head coach Mohamed Ouahbi calling up Samir El Mourabet as his replacement.

RB Leipzig confirmed that El Aynaoui’s early departure was a precautionary measure, describing his condition as a minor lower-leg issue.

The midfielder will therefore miss Morocco’s encounters against Niger on November 13 and 17 as he returns to Germany for further medical attention.

According to Sky Germany, Leipzig are not particularly concerned about the severity of the problem, although further assessments will help determine his recovery timeline.

El Aynaoui has become an important figure since joining Leipzig on loan from AS Roma, establishing himself as a regular starter in the Bundesliga.

He has featured in all eight of the club’s league matches this season, while also making four Champions League appearances and featuring in the DFB-Pokal.

Leipzig will now monitor his condition ahead of their Bundesliga meeting with Union Berlin on November 21.