Sofyan Amrabat has declared himself unavailable for selection for the Morocco national football team while current coach Mohamed Ouahbi remains in charge. The decision comes as fellow Dutch-Moroccan midfielder Mohamed Ihattaren continues his attempt to rebuild a career that once promised global stardom.
Why has Amrabat stepped away?
Amrabat stated in an Instagram post that it was a very difficult decision but he does not feel able to continue under the present head coach. The 30-year-old, who recently signed for Ajax Amsterdam, clarified he has not retired from international football and has not closed the door on a future return. Straits Times Sport reported that Amrabat did not reveal his reasons publicly, but his playing time was limited at the recent 2026 World Cup, where he started just one of his side's six matches.
His announcement comes days before Morocco faces Gabon on September 25 in their first Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. The team currently sits second in World Cup qualifying with 7 points from 3 games, having scored 6 goals and conceded 3. Fans can check the latest standings for updates.
Where is Mohamed Ihattaren's career now?
Mohamed Ihattaren is attempting to resurrect his career at Fortuna Sittard after a series of personal and professional issues derailed his early promise. A report in The National Sport described Ihattaren as one of European football's great lost talents, with some comparing his languid style to that of Riyad Mahrez.
The 24-year-old's path has included controversy over his international allegiance, switching from the Netherlands to Morocco in 2025, though he is yet to earn a senior cap for either nation. Ihattaren has also faced legal troubles linked to domestic allegations and alleged connections to criminal networks.
How did Bouaddi's choice impact the squad?
The emergence of young Manchester City midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi contributed to limiting Amrabat's role within the national team setup. Bouaddi, 18, chose to represent Morocco over France in May 2026, weeks before the World Cup, a move that highlighted ongoing questions of identity and belonging. Moroccan sociologist Aya Jebari Laakel analyzed this choice in comments to WIRED Middle East.
Bouaddi's breakout performances at the tournament, particularly against Brazil, affirmed the significance of his decision. Supporters can view all available squad members on our squad page.
How are preparations for 2030 progressing?
Morocco is constructing the Grand Stade Hassan II outside Casablanca, a 115,000-seat stadium, as part of its preparations to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal. Hatim Jaadour, sales and marketing director at Eurogrues Maroc, described the buildout as one of the most ambitious infrastructure programs in the country's history.
Investment is estimated between $34 billion and $40 billion across 35 cities, aiming to upgrade infrastructure beyond football. Aziz Bensouda of DSV TRO said the event will be a showcase for the country's capabilities.
What is the team's current status?
The Morocco national football team prepares to face Gabon following mixed recent form. The team's record in its last five matches is one win, two draws, and two losses, including a 2-0 defeat to France on July 9 in the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals. Striker Ayoub El Kaabi is also currently sidelined with injury.
After the Gabon match, Morocco will travel to face Lesotho in Bloemfontein, South Africa, on September 29. All upcoming match details can be found on the fixtures page.
