Rabat, Morocco – The Moroccan Football Federation has revealed details of the medical condition of Abdel Samad Zalzouli and Nayef Aguerd. It confirmed their absence from the national team’s squad for the 2026 World Cup due to injury and lack of full fitness.
The Moroccan Football Federation stated in an official statement that the overall health of most of the national team players is encouraging ahead of the World Cup. Meanwhile, the players are continuing their preparations according to the technical and medical program designed for the tournament.
The statement indicated that the national team’s medical staff continues to monitor the players closely. They are also committed to keeping Moroccan fans informed of the latest developments regarding the health of the “Atlas Lions” players.
The federation confirmed that medical examinations revealed Abdel Samad Zalzouli suffered a sprained right knee. He also sustained a tear in his medial collateral ligament. This injury requires a lengthy period of treatment and rehabilitation, which has led to his official exclusion from the World Cup.
Regarding Nayef Aguerd, the statement explained that the player has made significant progress recently thanks to the rehabilitation program he underwent. However, the time remaining before the start of the tournament is insufficient for him to regain his physical and technical fitness. Therefore, he will not be able to compete at the highest level.
Following confirmation of the duo’s absence, Morocco’s national team coach, Mohamed Wahbi, decided to call up Amine Sebaï and Marouane Saâdane to join the final squad. The squad now comprises 26 players in preparation for the World Cup.
The Moroccan Football Federation emphasized that the absence of Zalzouli and Aguerd from the tournament will not diminish their role within the national team. They affirmed that the two players will continue to support their teammates throughout the World Cup campaign. This reflects the strong team spirit that has characterized the Moroccan national team in recent years.
