Morocco receive boost as Zakaria El Ouahdi secures visa for 2026 World Cup trip

Morocco have been handed a positive development in their 2026 World Cup preparations after Zakaria El Ouahdi was finally granted the necessary travel documents to join the national team camp in the United States.

The situation surrounding the defender had caused concern earlier in the week after reports in the Moroccan press revealed that he had twice been refused a visa, preventing him from travelling with the rest of the national team delegation.

As a result of the delay, Morocco’s technical staff were forced to adjust their plans, handing a call-up to young defender Ali Maamar as a temporary replacement while they waited for clarity on El Ouahdi’s status.

A flight had also been arranged for El Ouahdi to travel on Saturday, pending the resolution of his documentation issues. The uncertainty left his immediate involvement in the team’s preparations in doubt.

However, the matter has now been resolved. According to le360, the player has successfully obtained his papers and will now be able to travel to join his teammates without further delay.

The development ensures that Morocco can proceed with their preparations for the 2026 World Cup with greater stability, as the squad continues to assemble in the United States ahead of the tournament build-up.

El Ouahdi’s availability is a welcome relief for the coaching staff, who had been monitoring the situation closely while also integrating replacement options into their plans.

With the administrative issue now cleared, attention turns back to football matters as Morocco continue their preparations for the global tournament, with the defender expected to link up with the squad in the coming days.

The resolution brings an end to a brief period of uncertainty and allows Morocco to restore their original plans for the player’s involvement in camp.