Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has responded to Sofyan Amrabat’s decision to make himself unavailable for the Atlas Lions while the current coach remains in charge.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday ahead of Morocco’s upcoming AFCON 2027 qualifiers, Ouahbi acknowledged the midfielder’s frustration over his limited playing time while making clear that competition for places remains central to his selection decisions.
Ouahbi Acknowledges Amrabat’s Contribution
Ouahbi began by recognising Amrabat’s importance to the national team over the years.
The midfielder has been a key figure for Morocco for much of the past decade, most notably during the Atlas Lions’ historic run to the 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-finals.
“First of all, someone who has given everything to the national team deserves respect, and we must not forget that,” Ouahbi said.
The coach also acknowledged Amrabat’s disappointment over his reduced involvement.
‘There Is No Conflict’
Despite the decision, Ouahbi rejected suggestions of a personal dispute between himself and the 30-year-old midfielder.
“I understand his disappointment. However, at the same time, football relies on competition and current readiness,” the Morocco coach explained.
“There is no personal issue or conflict between us; it is purely a matter of sporting choices and the alternatives currently available.”
Amrabat himself has said that his decision is not an international retirement, leaving open the possibility of representing Morocco again in the future.
Performance Remains the Deciding Factor
Ouahbi then outlined his position on selection and the importance of current form.
“No player is guaranteed a spot on the national team, regardless of their name or history, performance on the pitch is always the ultimate decider. Your past earns you respect, but not privilege,” he maintained.
The statement underlines the competitive nature of the current Morocco squad, with several midfield options competing for opportunities.
Amrabat’s Decision
Amrabat announced last week that he would make himself unavailable for Morocco for as long as Ouahbi remains in charge.
The midfielder stressed that the decision did not represent his retirement from international football and that he was not closing the door on a potential return.
He also chose not to publicly reveal the reasons behind his decision, saying that he preferred to keep them private out of respect for Morocco and everyone involved.
A Different Role Since 2022
Amrabat's importance to Morocco was particularly evident during the 2022 World Cup, when he played a central role in the team's historic journey to the semi-finals.
He was also part of the Atlas Lions squad at the 2026 World Cup, although his involvement was more limited.
His latest decision therefore marks a significant moment in his international career, particularly as Morocco begins a new cycle under Ouahbi.
A New Chapter at Ajax
At club level, Amrabat has also entered a new chapter.
The midfielder recently joined Ajax on a two-year contract after leaving Fenerbahçe as a free agent, returning to the club where his professional career began.
For now, however, his focus at international level will remain on the sidelines.
The Door Remains Open
Amrabat will not be available for Morocco’s upcoming AFCON 2027 qualifying matches, but his decision does not appear to have closed the door permanently.
Both the player’s comments and Ouahbi’s remarks leave room for the situation to change in the future.
For the Atlas Lions, the immediate focus is on the players available for the next international window, while Amrabat begins a new chapter with Ajax.
The relationship between Amrabat and Morocco remains unfinished, with a possible return dependent on how the situation develops in the future.