Achraf Hakimi has led a group of senior players in raising concerns over the intensity of training sessions in the Morocco national team camp in the United States, ahead of their opening 2026 World Cup match against Brazil.
According to a source close to the squad speaking to WinWin, the intervention came after a recent friendly performance against Norway, with players reportedly feeling the physical demands of the current preparation programme.
The discussions, which took place between the squad and head coach Mohamed Wahbi, were described as more direct than usual, with Hakimi acting as the main voice of the group.
Players are said to have expressed concerns that the intensity of training sessions, combined with the fatigue of a demanding club season and long-distance travel, was pushing several members of the squad beyond their physical limits.
The squad warned that continuing at the same level of intensity could increase the risk of muscle injuries, particularly as preparations are being conducted in high temperatures in New Jersey.
Their concerns were heightened by recent injury setbacks within the squad, including issues involving Noussair Mazraoui and Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, which have already affected squad stability and raised fears of further fitness problems.
The source indicated that the players’ message was delivered in a coordinated manner and reflected growing anxiety within the camp about the physical demands being placed on them so close to the start of the tournament.
In response, Wahbi is said to have reacted positively to the concerns raised by Hakimi and his teammates.
The coach reportedly instructed the technical and medical staff to immediately reduce the intensity of training sessions and to shift the focus towards recovery and muscle maintenance rather than high-load physical work.
The adjustment is understood to be part of an effort to prevent further injuries and ensure that the squad arrives in optimal condition for the group stage.
The decision highlights a delicate balance within the Morocco camp as staff attempt to maintain competitive sharpness while avoiding unnecessary physical strain ahead of a demanding opening fixture.
Morocco’s preparations are now being closely managed with increased attention on player workload, recovery schedules and injury prevention measures.
The situation also reflects the pressure surrounding teams entering major tournaments, where limited preparation time must be carefully managed to avoid burnout or fitness setbacks.
Morocco national football team are preparing for a high-profile opening match against Brazil national football team at the 2026 World Cup, a fixture that is already generating significant anticipation among supporters across Morocco and the wider Arab world.
The match is scheduled to take place on Saturday, 13 June 2026, at 11:00pm Moroccan time, which corresponds to 1:00am in Mecca.
With the tournament fast approaching, Morocco’s revised training approach is aimed at ensuring the squad is physically prepared without risking further injuries before their opening group-stage challenge.
