Sofyan Amrabat has stepped back from Morocco duty, saying his availability depends on Mohamed Ouahbi’s position as head coach, though he insists it is not a retirement from international football.
In his Instagram statement, Amrabat called the decision “very difficult” but stopped short of explaining his reasoning in full. He was clear, however, that this is not a retirement from international football, with his availability tied specifically to Ouahbi’s position rather than a permanent exit.
He described his rift with the coach as “irreparable,” framing his absence as conditional on Ouahbi remaining in charge. Earlier reports had pointed to frustration over a reduced role and diminished trust since Ouahbi took over, reflected in his limited game time at the 2026 World Cup, where he started just one of six matches as Morocco fell to France in the quarter-finals.
That marks a shift from his standing under previous coach Walid Regragui, when Amrabat was an undisputed starter, including during Morocco’s run to the semi-finals at Qatar 2022. Under Ouahbi, tactical preference has moved toward younger midfielders such as Ayyoub Bouaddi and Neil El Aynaoui, further reducing his standing in the squad. Ouahbi has downplayed talk of conflict, attributing the criticism to disappointment over playing time rather than any personal dispute.
Amrabat, born in 1996, has been part of Morocco’s national setup since his first call-up around 2014-2017, describing his 12-year international career as the “greatest honor” of his career. Throughout his career, Amrabat has been recognized for his midfield mastery and quiet leadership, qualities that have defined his role for club and country alike.
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