Azzedine Ounahi has taken the first major step towards recovery after undergoing successful surgery on Thursday, October 29, with the Moroccan midfielder receiving a welcome show of support from national-team captain Achraf Hakimi.
Panathinaikos confirmed the successful operation in an official announcement, offering a positive update following the serious injury that has left the 26-year-old facing several months on the sidelines.
Although the surgery went well, the road back to competitive football will be a long one. Ounahi is not expected to return before late March or early April 2027, meaning both his Greek club and the Moroccan national team must prepare for an extended period without one of their key midfielders.
Successful Surgery Marks the Beginning of Recovery
The operation followed further medical examinations that revealed a complete rupture of the right biceps femoris tendon, part of the hamstring muscle group.
The injury was initially expected to keep Ounahi out for approximately two and a half to three months. However, the latest diagnosis proved more serious, ruling out the possibility of an early return around January 2027.
Panathinaikos provided details of the medical team involved in the procedure, which included club doctor Haris Lalos, renowned orthopaedic surgeon Nicolas Lefèvre and Christophe Baudot, the Moroccan national team's doctor and a medical consultant for Paris Saint-Germain.
The successful operation represents an important first step, but Ounahi's recovery will depend on his rehabilitation, progress during the coming months and medical assessments before he can safely return to training.
Achraf Hakimi Delivers a Message of Support
One of the most encouraging moments following the operation came when Achraf Hakimi visited his Moroccan teammate.
The Paris Saint-Germain defender and captain of the Atlas Lions was at Ounahi's bedside, offering his support during a difficult period for the midfielder.
The visit highlighted the bond between members of Morocco's national team, particularly as one of their teammates faces a lengthy recovery away from the pitch.
For Ounahi, the presence of a fellow international at such a challenging moment provides a reminder that he is not facing the rehabilitation process alone.
Hakimi's gesture also reflects the solidarity within a Moroccan squad preparing for important international challenges in the months ahead.
A Major Blow for Panathinaikos and Morocco
Ounahi's absence will be felt at both club and international level.
For Panathinaikos, losing the Moroccan midfielder for a substantial portion of the season means having to reorganise the midfield and find alternatives capable of replacing his technical quality and creativity.
For Morocco, the setback is equally significant. Ounahi has been an important component of the Atlas Lions' midfield, bringing close control, composure and the ability to progress the ball under pressure.
His potential absence from upcoming international fixtures will force the coaching staff to consider alternative combinations as the national team continues preparing for its next competitive commitments.
With the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations approaching, his recovery timeline will be closely monitored by Moroccan supporters eager to see him return to full fitness.
The Road Back to the Pitch
Ounahi's injury occurred on October 18, when he was carried off on a stretcher during Panathinaikos' 5-1 victory over Asteras in the Greek league.
What initially appeared to be a shorter absence has since developed into a much more serious setback. The priority now is to complete rehabilitation properly rather than rush the midfielder back before he is ready.
The coming months will require patience, discipline and consistent progress through each stage of recovery.
For a player whose qualities have made him an important figure for both club and country, the objective will be to regain his physical condition and return capable of performing at his best.
Ounahi's surgery is complete, and the road back has begun. With the support of Hakimi, his teammates and Moroccan supporters behind him, the focus now turns to a full and successful recovery.