Azzedine Ounahi faces a difficult spell on the sidelines after suffering a serious hamstring injury that is expected to keep him out of action until the beginning of 2027.
The Moroccan international sustained the injury during Panathinaikos’ 5-1 victory over Asteras Tripolis, leaving the pitch on a stretcher after just 20 minutes. What initially appeared to be a worrying incident has since developed into a significant setback for both the Greek club and the Atlas Lions.
According to Greek outlet ERT Sports, medical examinations confirmed a severe tear in the biceps femoris, a muscle located at the back of his right thigh. The expected recovery period would rule him out of action for several months.
A Painful Setback After Panathinaikos’ Victory
Ounahi’s injury overshadowed Panathinaikos’ emphatic league victory on Sunday. The midfielder was forced off early, with the stretcher needed to take him from the pitch as concerns grew over the severity of the problem.
Further medical assessments confirmed the extent of the damage, leaving the club facing the prospect of being without an important midfield option for a prolonged period.
The injury also comes at a crucial stage of the European campaign. Panathinaikos are preparing for their UEFA Conference League trip to Kazakhstan, where they will face Kairat Almaty on October 22.
Coach Jacob Neestrup has named a 24-man squad for the encounter, with Ounahi among the absentees.
Panathinaikos Must Adjust Without the Moroccan Midfielder
The Greek side will travel to Almaty looking to build on their 2-1 victory over Borac Banja Luka in their Conference League opener on October 15.
Without Ounahi, Panathinaikos will need to find alternative solutions in midfield as they continue their European campaign. His absence removes one option from the squad and leaves the coaching staff with the challenge of managing their resources during a demanding period of fixtures.
The immediate priority will be supporting the midfielder through his recovery, with the anticipated length of his absence making a cautious rehabilitation process particularly important.
Morocco Face Fresh Concerns Ahead of November Qualifiers
The injury is also unwelcome news for Morocco, with the Atlas Lions scheduled to face Niger on November 13 and 17 in their qualifying campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
At 26, Ounahi remains an option in midfield for head coach Mohamed Ouahbi. His technical quality and ability to contribute in possession have made him a useful player for the national side, making his potential absence another consideration as Morocco prepare for the upcoming international window.
If the reported recovery timeline holds, he will miss both November fixtures. His availability for subsequent international commitments will depend on his rehabilitation and return to competitive action.
Recovery Comes Before Any Return
For now, attention turns to Ounahi’s recovery. A serious hamstring tear can require an extended rehabilitation period, and the priority will be ensuring that he returns only when medically ready.
The coming months will be important for both club and country as they monitor his progress.
Panathinaikos must plan without him in the short term, while Morocco may need to explore alternative midfield options for their November assignments.
It is a frustrating interruption for the Moroccan international, but a careful recovery will be essential as he works towards returning to the pitch in 2027.