Azzedine Ounahi faces a difficult road to recovery after new medical examinations revealed that his injury is significantly more serious than initially expected. The Moroccan international and Panathinaikos midfielder is now set to undergo surgery, with his return potentially delayed until late March or early April 2027.
The latest diagnosis represents a major setback for the 26-year-old, whose initial recovery timeline had suggested an absence of approximately two and a half to three months. Instead, the midfielder could now spend more than five months away from competitive football.
Medical Tests Reveal a More Serious Injury
According to a source close to the Greek club, further examinations confirmed a complete rupture of the right biceps femoris tendon, part of the hamstring muscle group responsible for movements such as sprinting and accelerating.
The severity of the injury means that surgery is required, with the procedure expected to take place during the week. His recovery will then depend on the outcome of the operation, his rehabilitation progress and his response to treatment.
While late March or early April 2027 has emerged as a possible return window, that timeline remains provisional and could change depending on his recovery.
A Painful Setback for Panathinaikos
The injury occurred on October 18, when Ounahi was forced off on a stretcher during Panathinaikos' 5-1 victory over Asteras in the Greek league.
At first, the expectation was that the midfielder could return around January 2027. The latest findings have dramatically altered that outlook, leaving Panathinaikos facing the prospect of being without one of its Moroccan midfielders for a substantial portion of the season.
His absence will also deprive the Greek side of his technical quality, creativity and ability to influence play in midfield.
Morocco Also Faces a Major Blow
The news is equally concerning for Morocco's national team. Ounahi has played an important role for the Atlas Lions, bringing composure, technical ability and forward-thinking play to the middle of the pitch.
His recovery timeline could rule him out of upcoming international fixtures, making his rehabilitation an important concern for both club and country.
For the midfielder, the priority will now be to undergo surgery successfully and complete the demanding rehabilitation process required to return to full fitness.
The Road Back Begins
Ounahi's injury is an undeniable setback at a crucial stage of his career, but the focus will be on making a complete recovery rather than rushing his return.
Moroccan supporters will hope to see the midfielder back on the pitch as soon as it is safe for him to compete again. Until then, Panathinaikos and the Atlas Lions must prepare for a prolonged period without his services.
The road back may be longer than expected, but Ounahi's next challenge is clear: recover fully, rebuild his fitness and return stronger.