Algeria Football– Hakim Ziyech, Moroccan star playing for Galatasaray SK, continues to raise questions among Atlas Lions supporters. While the national coach, Walid Regragui, and his technical staff, made up of Rachid Benmahmoud and Abdelaziz Bouhazama, are busy preparing the March gathering at the Mohammed VI Center, in view of the matches against Niger and Tanzania, the mystery persists around the absence of the 31-year-old player from the last call-ups.
The two matches, which are part of the 5th and 6th days of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, are of particular importance. However, Ziyech, a key element of Morocco’s journey to the 2022 World Cup, still seems to be out of Regragui’s plans for this period.
According to sources cited by WinWinofficially the prolonged absence of Ziyech would be mainly linked to his complicated situation at the club. In difficulty with Galatasaray, where he struggled to establish himself, the attacking midfielder faces criticism regarding his performance.
An official from the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) confirmed that Regragui remains in contact with the player.
“The coach spoke with Ziyech and explained to him the importance of finding a club that will allow him to regain his physical and technical level. This is essential to consider his return to the national team.”
Despite speculation, there is no conflict between Ziyech and the coach. Regragui highly appreciates the player’s personality and experience, valuable qualities in view of the next African Cup of Nations, which will be held in Morocco. However, a return for the March training seems unlikely. However, it would be the King who decided to ban the player after he criticized his government on Instagram.
-The possible departure of Ziyech during the winter transfer window could mark a decisive turning point in his career. While supporters hope for a return to form, his participation in the next rally remains compromised. The challenge for Ziyech now is to relaunch in a competitive championship in order to convince Regragui and regain his place among the Atlas Lions.
In the meantime, the coach will rely on other talents to stay the course in the race to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. The absence of Ziyech, although regrettable, opens the door to reflection on depth and diversity of options available within the national team.
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