World Cup 2026: Abde Ezzalzouli diagnosed with knee ligament injury

Morocco’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have suffered a setback after winger Abde Ezzalzouli was diagnosed with a knee ligament injury that is expected to keep him sidelined during the opening phase of the tournament.

Injury Confirmed After Norway Friendly

The Real Betis star sustained the injury during Morocco’s 1-1 draw against Norway in a pre-World Cup friendly match. Following his early exit from the game, the winger underwent further medical examinations to determine the extent of the problem.

According to reports from Foot Mercato, tests revealed that Ezzalzouli suffered a moderate sprain of the knee ligaments. Medical assessments indicate that his recovery could take between two and four weeks.

The timing of the injury is a major concern for Morocco, with the World Cup set to begin in just a matter of days.

Group Stage Absence Expected

Based on the projected recovery period, Ezzalzouli is likely to miss Morocco’s group-stage campaign at the tournament, which will be hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The Atlas Lions have been drawn in a challenging Group C alongside Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti.

Ezzalzouli was expected to play a key role in Morocco’s attacking plans after enjoying an impressive season with Spanish side Real Betis.

Should Morocco progress beyond the group stage, the winger could potentially return in time for the knockout rounds.

Wahbi Keeps Faith in Winger

Despite the injury setback, Morocco head coach Mohamed Wahbi has opted to keep Ezzalzouli in the squad for the World Cup rather than replace him.

The decision highlights the importance of the winger within the national team setup and reflects the coaching staff’s belief that he can still make a meaningful contribution later in the competition.

By retaining him in the squad, Wahbi is effectively gambling on a swift recovery and the player’s ability to regain match fitness in time for the latter stages of the tournament.

Morocco Hope for Timely Return

Ezzalzouli has become an important attacking weapon for the Atlas Lions thanks to his pace, creativity, and ability to unsettle defenders in one-on-one situations.

While his absence would be a significant loss in the opening matches, Morocco will hope the winger can recover quickly and return to strengthen the team should they advance to the knockout phase.

For now, the focus remains on his rehabilitation as the Atlas Lions prepare to begin their World Cup journey without one of their most exciting attacking talents.