RB Leipzig provide reassuring update on Naïl El Aynaoui after Morocco withdrawal

RB Leipzig sporting director Sebastian Chopin has played down concerns surrounding Moroccan international Naïl El Aynaoui after the midfielder withdrew from the national team’s training camp due to an ankle problem.

The German club official has reassured Moroccan supporters that the injury is not serious, explaining that the player’s decision to leave the camp was a precautionary measure aimed at preventing further complications.

Speaking to German media, Chopin revealed that El Aynaoui’s condition is largely related to accumulated fatigue following a demanding run of matches and the physical challenges he has experienced in recent months.

“El Aynaoui does not have a serious injury,” Chopin said.

He further explained that the Moroccan midfielder had endured several physical encounters and knocks during his recent appearances, which have contributed to his current discomfort.

“It is a matter of the accumulation of matches he has played, during which he endured many knocks and physical duels,” he added.

“He is currently feeling the effects of the fatigue that has built up over the last few weeks and months.”

El Aynaoui left Morocco’s training camp on Wednesday after experiencing discomfort around his ankle, prompting concerns over his availability for the national team’s upcoming international fixtures.

RB Leipzig subsequently clarified that the midfielder was dealing with a minor lower-leg injury, stressing that his release from international duty was agreed upon in consultation with the club’s medical department and management.

The decision was taken to allow the 24-year-old to recover properly rather than risk aggravating the problem during the international break.

His withdrawal comes at a time when he has been enjoying an encouraging spell at RB Leipzig, having quickly earned the confidence of the technical staff and established himself in the starting lineup since arriving at the German club.

El Aynaoui joined Leipzig from Italian giants AS Roma on a season-long loan, with the Bundesliga outfit holding an option to make the transfer permanent for approximately €25 million.

Meanwhile, Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi has moved to address the midfielder’s absence by calling up Samir El Mourabet to the national team training camp ahead of the upcoming fixtures against Niger in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

The latest update from Leipzig will come as a relief to Moroccan supporters, with the club optimistic that El Aynaoui’s condition will not keep him out of action for an extended period.