2026 World Cup: Morocco suffer double injury blow as Nayef Aguerd and Abde Ezzalzouli withdraw from squad

Morocco's preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have suffered a major setback after the withdrawal of two key players, defender Nayef Aguerd and winger Abde Ezzalzouli, just days before the Atlas Lions begin their campaign against Brazil.

The Moroccan Football Federation confirmed that both players will miss the tournament due to injury concerns, forcing head coach Mohamed Ouahbi into late changes to his final squad ahead of Sunday's crucial Group C opener.

Aguerd, one of Morocco's most experienced defenders, had been battling an adductor injury for several months.

The centre-back underwent surgery in March in an effort to recover in time for the World Cup and had recently returned to training.

However, the coaching staff ultimately decided that he would not be fit enough to compete at the highest level during the tournament.

The loss of Aguerd represents a significant blow to Morocco's defensive structure, with the former Marseille and Rennes defender expected to play a leading role in the team's backline.

Morocco have also been deprived of the services of Ezzalzouli after the Real Betis winger sustained a knee injury during the Atlas Lions' final warm-up match against Norway.

The 24-year-old suffered a moderate ligament sprain following a challenge inside the penalty area and was initially expected to miss only the opening matches.

However, the medical team later concluded that replacing him was the best option.

To fill the vacancies, Morocco have called up defender Marwane Saadane and winger Amine Sbai from the standby list.

Both players have now been officially registered with FIFA and are eligible for selection.

The injuries arrive at the worst possible moment for Morocco, who are hoping to build on their historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup.

The North Africans face a challenging group that includes Brazil, Scotland and Haiti.

With Aguerd and Ezzalzouli unavailable, greater responsibility will fall on captain Achraf Hakimi, defender Chadi Riad and playmaker Brahim Díaz as Morocco seek to overcome the adversity and make a strong start to their World Cup journey.