Ouahbi Explains Amrabat Absence as Morocco Selection Race Intensifies
Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has dismissed suggestions of a personal disagreement with midfielder Sofyan Amrabat, saying the player's current absence from the national team is linked to competition for playing time.
Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has dismissed suggestions of a personal disagreement with midfielder Sofyan Amrabat, saying the player’s current absence from the national team is linked to competition for playing time.
Amrabat recently announced that he would not represent Morocco while Ouahbi remains in charge. However, the midfielder made it clear that he had not retired from international football and could consider returning to the national team in the future.
Ouahbi addressed the situation after announcing his first Morocco squad since the team’s campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to an end.
The coach acknowledged Amrabat’s contribution to Moroccan football, describing him as an important member of the national team in recent years. He said the midfielder’s achievements deserved recognition but stressed that selection decisions would be based on the current circumstances.
According to Ouahbi, there is no personal dispute between him and Amrabat, nor between the player and the coaching staff. Instead, he said the main issue is the amount of playing time available to the 30-year-old midfielder.
Amrabat’s position in the national team has changed since Ouahbi took over as coach in March. At the 2026 World Cup, he started only one match as Morocco progressed before their campaign ended against France.
Competition for places in midfield has also increased, with younger players pushing for regular opportunities. Manchester City youngster Ayyoub Bouaddi is among the players competing for midfield positions.
Ouahbi said previous achievements alone would not guarantee a player a place in his squad. He wants selection to be determined by current performances and form.
The coach nevertheless indicated that Amrabat’s return to the national team remains possible, saying the door is open to players who meet the required standards.
Amrabat played a major role in Morocco’s historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup under former coach Walid Regragui. His performances during that tournament made him one of the key figures in the team’s successful campaign.
His reduced involvement under Ouahbi has now created a new chapter in his international career, although neither the player nor the coach has indicated that his Morocco career has permanently ended.
Morocco are preparing for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. They are scheduled to face Gabon on September 25 before taking on Lesotho four days later.
For Amrabat, the situation leaves the possibility of a return open, but his future involvement will depend on the circumstances surrounding selection and playing time.
