Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi addressed Sofyan Amrabat’s international retirement on Thursday after announcing his 29-man squad for the upcoming international break. Amrabat recently said on social media that he would no longer play for the Atlas Lions while Ouahbi remains in charge.
The midfielder reacted after losing playing time as the new coach increasingly trusted younger players. Ouahbi acknowledged Amrabat’s contribution to Morocco and said he understood his frustration. “He has given a lot to the national team; he is part of its recent history. We must not forget that or take it away from him,” he said.
Ouahbi also stressed that Amrabat’s reduced role came from competition within the squad rather than a personal dispute. “I understand his disappointment; it isn’t easy to hold a certain status and then lose playing time because young players are coming through,” the coach explained. He added that Amrabat has to accept the situation and insisted that “there is no conflict between him and me—or the coaching staff.” Ouahbi therefore framed the situation as a sporting decision rather than a breakdown in relations between the midfielder and the national team.
The Morocco coach then outlined his merit-based approach while keeping the door open for Amrabat’s return. “In football, the past earns you respect but grants you no privileges. My guiding principle is meritocracy,” Ouahbi stated. He admitted that Amrabat wanted more playing time but stressed that no player receives a guaranteed place in his squad. “The door isn’t closed, and no spot is guaranteed,” he added, making clear that he does not intend to turn the situation into a standoff with the experienced midfielder.
