A new chapter has opened around the Moroccan national team after Sofyan Amrabat announced his decision to step away from international duty under head coach Mohamed Ouahbi.
The midfielder made the announcement on Tuesday, September 8, through a message published on his official Instagram account, describing the decision as a deeply difficult one while reaffirming his enduring love for Morocco and the national team.
A Difficult Decision for the Atlas Lions Veteran
Amrabat reflected on his long international career, recalling the pride he has always felt when representing Morocco.
- “Representing Morocco has been the greatest honor of my career,” the midfielder wrote, emphasizing that his connection with the national team will never change.
However, Amrabat explained that he currently does not feel able to continue with the Atlas Lions while Ouahbi remains in charge.
The decision is therefore a temporary withdrawal rather than an international retirement, with the door firmly left open for a potential return.
The Door to Morocco Remains Open
Amrabat was clear that his decision should not be interpreted as the end of his international career.
- “I am not retiring from international football,” he stressed, while making it clear that he could once again represent Morocco in the future.
The midfielder also chose not to reveal the specific reasons behind his decision, saying he preferred to keep them private out of respect for the national team and everyone involved.
That message keeps the focus on the future rather than allowing the current situation to overshadow Amrabat's years of service to the Atlas Lions.
A Story That Began Before the World Cup
The relationship between Amrabat and Ouahbi had already attracted attention following Morocco's 2026 World Cup campaign.
After the Atlas Lions' quarterfinal exit against France, Amrabat's brother Mohamed spoke publicly about Sofyan's frustration with the situation surrounding the coach.
Ouahbi later addressed the subject himself during a press conference at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, insisting that there was no personal conflict between himself and the midfielder while acknowledging Amrabat's strong personality.
The latest announcement now gives that earlier episode a new dimension.
A Player Who Has Given Everything for Morocco
Whatever happens next, Amrabat's contribution to the Atlas Lions remains an important part of Morocco's recent football story.
From his emergence on the international stage to Morocco's unforgettable journey at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the midfielder has been part of a generation that helped transform the country's presence on football's biggest stage.
His latest message also ended on a note of support for his teammates and the wider national-team staff.
- “I will remain the biggest supporter of this team,” Amrabat said, promising to continue backing Morocco with the same passion he has always shown while wearing the shirt.
Morocco Looks Ahead
The Atlas Lions now prepare for their upcoming fixtures against Gabon on September 25 at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, followed by an away meeting with Lesotho in Bloemfontein on September 29.
For Morocco, the priority remains the continued development of the national team and the next chapter of its ambitious football journey. For Amrabat, the story is not over.
For Amrabat, the story may not be completely over. But for Morocco, the focus now is on continuity, unity, and building the next chapter under Mohamed Ouahbi, with the national team looking firmly toward the future.