Sofyan Amrabat: I will not return to the Lions as long as Mohamed Ouahbi is in charge

A new crisis hits the Lions: Sofyan Amrabat refuses to wear the national jersey

In an unexpected move that has shaken the Moroccan sports scene, midfield star Sofyan Amrabat announced, via his official social media accounts, his decision to temporarily step away from the Moroccan national team. This comes as a protest against the continued tenure of national coach Mohamed Ouahbi at the head of the team’s technical management.

Amrabat’s message to the fans: Patriotism is constant, the dispute is professional

In his moving post, Amrabat emphasized that representing Morocco remains the greatest honor of his professional career, recalling 12 years of dedication and sacrifice wearing the Lions’ jersey. The player clarified that his decision was not impulsive, but the result of accumulated professional difficulties, noting that he no longer feels capable of continuing under the current technical leadership, preferring to keep the specific details private out of respect for the national team’s institution.

Background of the decision: Is it a “punishment” from the bench?

This escalatory move by Amrabat, as widely discussed in sports circles, is a clear signal of his dissatisfaction with recent technical decisions, particularly after being relegated to the bench during the last World Cup. Coach Mohamed Ouahbi’s preference to play Ayoub Bouaddi in his place was perceived by Amrabat as a slight to his value and international experience.

The future of Sofyan Amrabat: The door for a return remains ajar

Despite the firmness of his decision, Sofyan Amrabat made sure to emphasize that he is not officially retiring from international football, leaving the door open for a potential return in the future, provided there is a change in the technical staff. The player concluded his message with unconditional support for his teammates, confirming that he will remain the national team’s biggest fan and supporter in all upcoming competitions, while expressing his deep gratitude to the Moroccan fans who have supported him throughout his career.