The Moroccan national team are expected to unveil a World Cup squad containing several major surprises as head coach Mohamed Wahbi finalises his plans for the 2026 tournament in North America.
Supporters of the “Atlas Lions” are awaiting confirmation of the final 26-man squad that will represent Morocco at the World Cup, with reports suggesting the coaching staff are preparing significant tactical adjustments aimed at improving balance between the starting line-up and the substitutes’ bench.
The anticipated squad is said to include four notable decisions reflecting Wahbi’s evolving tactical vision as Morocco prepare for one of the most competitive editions of the World Cup.
Among the most unexpected names linked with inclusion is Marwan Saadane, who has emerged as a potential defensive reinforcement for the national side.
Reports indicate Saadane could act as a “joker” within the squad, providing additional defensive depth and versatility. His expected inclusion has been described as one of the biggest surprises ahead of the tournament, with many followers not anticipating his presence among the final selections.
Rahimi Secures Place as Boufal Returns to Form
At the other end of the pitch, Soufiane Rahimi appears to have secured his position in Morocco’s World Cup squad following a series of impressive performances.
According to reports, Rahimi has convinced the technical staff of his importance in the attacking system favoured by Wahbi and is now regarded as one of the key figures in the team’s offensive plans for the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Meanwhile, Sofiane Boufal is also expected to play an important role after rediscovering his form. The winger is reportedly viewed as one of the main supporting elements in Morocco’s attack as the team seek to build on previous international progress.
The decisions surrounding the attacking line demonstrate the coaching staff’s intention to combine experience with renewed energy ahead of the global competition.
El Kaabi Facing Crucial Test
One of the most closely watched selection decisions concerns striker Ayoub El Kaabi.
Reports suggest the forward’s place in the squad has not yet been guaranteed and could depend heavily on his performance in Morocco’s upcoming friendly match against Burundi national football team.
The match is being treated as a decisive final opportunity for El Kaabi to convince the coaching staff that he deserves a place in the World Cup plans.
The Burundi fixture is expected to serve as the final assessment before the official squad announcement, increasing the pressure on several players still fighting for selection.
Tergaline Facing Possible Exclusion
While some players appear to have strengthened their positions, others may be heading towards exclusion from the final squad.
Reports indicate that Oussama Tergaline is likely to miss out on the 26-man selection in what is being described as a technical decision linked to Wahbi’s tactical approach.
The coaching staff are believed to prefer alternative options that better suit the system intended for use during the World Cup.
The expected changes underline Morocco’s determination to refresh the squad and fine-tune preparations before the start of the tournament.
By introducing new faces such as Saadane, confirming the role of Rahimi and carefully reassessing players like El Kaabi, Wahbi appears focused on building a balanced and competitive team capable of meeting the expectations of millions of Moroccan supporters.
Attention will now turn fully to the Burundi friendly, which is expected to play a decisive role in shaping Morocco’s final World Cup squad before the official announcement is made.
