The Moroccan Football Federation has confirmed that Abdel Samad Zalzouli and Nayef Aguerd will miss the 2026 World Cup after both players were ruled out due to injury-related setbacks.
The announcement came in an official statement published via the federation’s Facebook page, just days before Morocco begin their participation in the tournament.
While confirming the absences, the federation also sought to reassure supporters that the overall condition of the squad remains stable and that preparations are continuing as planned.
It said: “Just a few days before the start of the national team’s participation in the 2026 World Cup finals, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation confirms that the general health condition of the national team members is reassuring, as most of the players are continuing their preparations in good conditions and according to the established training program, in line with the requirements of this crucial stage and the aspirations of the Moroccan fans.”
The statement added that the team’s medical staff is maintaining close and continuous monitoring of all players as the squad finalises preparations for the global competition.
It said: “As part of the close and continuous medical monitoring of the national team players, the medical staff informs the national public and the Moroccan fans of the latest developments regarding the health condition of some players.”
Zalzouli Sidelined by Knee Ligament Damage
The federation provided detailed information on the injury suffered by Zalzouli, confirming that medical examinations revealed a significant knee problem.
According to the statement, the player sustained a sprain to his right knee, accompanied by a tear in the medial collateral ligament.
The severity of the injury means the winger will require an extended period of treatment and rehabilitation, ruling him out of the World Cup entirely.
The federation confirmed that his condition makes it impossible for him to recover in time to participate in the tournament, dealing a major blow to Morocco’s attacking options.
Aguerd Misses Out Despite Recovery Progress
In contrast, defender Nayef Aguerd had shown encouraging signs of recovery in recent weeks following a rehabilitation programme.
However, the federation explained that although his condition has improved significantly, there is insufficient time remaining before the start of the World Cup for him to regain full physical and competitive readiness.
As a result, medical and technical staff concluded that he would not be fit to compete at the required level during the tournament.
The decision reflects the federation’s cautious approach to player fitness at a critical stage in preparations, prioritising long-term health and squad stability.
Squad Adjustments Confirmed
Following the confirmation of both absences, Morocco’s head coach Mohamed Wahbi has moved quickly to adjust the squad.
The federation announced that Amine Sebaï and Marouane Saâdane have been called up to replace the injured players in the final 26-man squad for the World Cup.
The changes ensure that Morocco maintain full squad numbers ahead of their opening fixtures, despite the loss of two important players.
Support Maintained for Injured Players
Despite being ruled out of the tournament, both Zalzouli and Aguerd are expected to remain closely involved with the squad in a supportive capacity.
The federation emphasised that the players will continue to be part of the wider national team environment during the competition.
It said: “Despite their absence from this global football event, Abdel Samad Zalzouli and Nayef Aguerd will remain an essential part of the national team family, and will continue to provide their support and assistance to their teammates during this historic event, believing in the team spirit and the values that distinguish the Atlas Lions in various competitions.”
Focus Shifts to Tournament Preparation
The injuries come at a sensitive moment for Morocco as they finalise preparations for the 2026 World Cup.
While the absences of two established players represent a setback, the federation’s statement emphasised continuity and confidence within the wider squad.
Attention now turns to how the revised group will shape up on the international stage, as Morocco aim to compete strongly despite the disruption caused by late injury withdrawals.
