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Amrabat withdraws from Morocco squad, cites coaching dispute

Sofyan Amrabat has announced he will not participate in Morocco's upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers under current head coach Mohamed Ouahbi. The midfielder maintained he has not retired from international football.

LSN Malaysia · 8 September 2026

Amrabat withdraws from Morocco squad, cites coaching dispute

The Real Betis midfielder cited irreconcilable differences with Ouahbi's management as the reason for his withdrawal from the national team setup ahead of the qualifying matches. Amrabat, a key player in Morocco's recent World Cup campaign, indicated that his decision was specific to the current coaching regime rather than a broader exit from international competition.

Amrabat's departure represents a significant blow to Morocco's squad depth as the nation prepares for the continental qualifiers. The 27-year-old has been a fixture in the team's midfield during major tournaments and qualifying campaigns.

While the midfielder ruled out international retirement, his statement did not clarify the specific nature of his disagreement with Ouahbi or whether reconciliation might be possible under different circumstances. Morocco will need to adjust its tactical approach without one of its most experienced midfield operators for the upcoming qualifiers.

The Football Federation of Morocco has not yet issued an official response to Amrabat's announcement. The timing of the withdrawal, coming shortly before crucial qualifying fixtures, is likely to intensify scrutiny on Ouahbi's leadership of the national program.