Ayoub El Kaabi was stretchered off during Olympiacos’ match at Panthessaliko Stadium after a collision left him in pain, halting play for several minutes as medical staff treated him on the pitch. The exact injury remains unconfirmed, though his fitness is a concern for Morocco ahead of September’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Volos players immediately signalled for medical staff as El Kaabi lay in pain, and the match was halted for several minutes while first aid was administered on the pitch.
Panthessaliko Stadium reportedly fell silent during the stoppage, with players from both sides visibly shaken and some in tears.
He was carried off on a stretcher for further assessment, with the precise nature of the injury not yet confirmed. Olympiacos’ medical staff are expected to carry out further examinations in the coming days to establish whether there is any structural damage.
The length of his expected absence is unknown. Early assessments suggested the injury could be serious, though no official diagnosis has been released.
El Kaabi has previously suffered muscle problems at Olympiacos, including hamstring and thigh injuries that kept him out for between roughly 10 days and six weeks. Whether this issue falls within that range or proves more serious remains to be seen.
The injury also raises concern for Morocco, who are due to hold a training camp at the end of September 2026 ahead of two 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. El Kaabi has been a key figure in the national side’s attack, and his possible unavailability would be a blow to their planning. His scoring form has been central to Morocco’s rise as a footballing nation in recent years.
Olympiacos’ coaching and medical staff are expected to monitor his condition closely before making further decisions on his recovery timeline and match availability.
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