Morocco’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup continue to be overshadowed by uncertainty surrounding the fitness of key defender Nayef Aguerd, with the Atlas Lions still awaiting a final verdict on his availability for their opening clash against Brazil.
The experienced centre-back has not featured since March after undergoing surgery for pubalgia, leaving serious doubts over whether he will be ready when Morocco begin their Group C campaign.
Those concerns remained after Morocco’s 1-1 friendly draw with Norway in New Jersey. Despite an encouraging performance that saw Brahim Díaz open the scoring, Aguerd was once again absent from the matchday squad as defenders Issa Diop and Chadi Riad partnered in central defence.
However, there are growing signs of optimism within the Moroccan camp.
Aguerd has remained with the squad throughout his rehabilitation programme and has recently resumed portions of full team training, raising hopes that he could still play a role during the tournament.
Head coach Mohamed Ouahbi confirmed after the Norway match that the defender is progressing according to schedule.
“He is following the protocol planned from the start. We are giving him another week. He is training, and we will know exactly where he is before making a decision.”
Ouahbi also highlighted Aguerd’s importance to the squad and revealed the coaching staff remain confident about his recovery.
The Morocco boss later provided perhaps the most encouraging update yet, suggesting the primary objective is ensuring Aguerd is available for selection rather than necessarily starting against Brazil.
“The question isn’t necessarily whether he starts against Brazil, but whether he’s on the team sheet.”
That assessment indicates Morocco have not given up hope of having one of their defensive leaders available during the competition, even if his involvement in the opening match remains uncertain.
The Atlas Lions are also monitoring the fitness of Noussair Mazraoui and Abde Ezzalzouli after both players were forced off during the draw with Norway. Meanwhile, there was positive news regarding Chemsdine Talbi, who has returned to normal training following a minor injury concern.
With less than a week remaining before Morocco face Brazil, the spotlight remains firmly on Aguerd’s recovery. His return would provide a major boost for a side hoping to build on its historic World Cup success and once again challenge the world’s elite on football’s biggest stage.
