Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has revealed that Nayef Aguerd could be replaced ahead of their World Cup opener against Brazil if his condition does not improve.
The 30-year-old has been out of action since March and missed all of Morocco’s warmup friendly games ahead of the World Cup.
Despite this, he was included in the Atlas Lions’ final squad for the World Cup but could now be replaced if his injury situation does not improve heading into the tournament.
“Regarding Nayef Aguerd, he’s following the protocol that we’ve put in place”, Ouahbi revealed.
“He wasn’t ready to play this match, but maybe he’ll be ready to play the next one.
“We still have time to make a decision, and we’ll continue to follow the protocol, but we also have [Marwane] Saadane, who’s here.”
Morocco are also sweating on the fitness of Abde Ezzalzouli, who picked up an injury in the 1-1 draw against Norway.
The Real Betis forward has been allowed to stay with the team rather than call up a replacement and is expected to make his return during the course of the World Cup tournament.
Morocco reached the last four in the last edition in 2022 and will now be eyeing another deep run in this World Cup edition.
“Whatever happens, we’re good on this point of view. We’re taking no risks, and we will not take any risks”, Ouahbi continued.
When we will make the decision, we won’t take any risks,” Ouahbi concluded, “and I’ll make the decision with a cool head, as I have always done. So there you go.”
Morocco begin their campaign against five-time champions Brazil this weekend in group C and will also go up against Scotland and Haiti, and they are expected to progress from the group to the next round.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
