A Star-Studded Moroccan Squad With One Big Question

Hosts Morocco have officially revealed their squad list for AFCON 2025, assembling one of the most talented and well-balanced teams in the tournament. Coach Walid Regragui called up elite names such as Brahim Díaz, Noussair Mazraoui, Azzedine Ounahi, Nayef Aguerd, and Eliesse Ben Seghir, reinforcing the idea that the Lions of the Atlas aspire to lift the trophy on home soil.

However, despite the depth of quality, all the anticipation revolved around a single figure: Achraf Hakimi, the most influential Moroccan footballer of his generation.

The final list also left notable absences, including Hakim Ziyech and Sofiane Boufal, both left out of the squad. Even so, the atmosphere surrounding the announcement made clear that the true suspense came from Hakimi’s medical situation and whether he would be able to compete.

The Injury That Threatened His Presence in the Tournament

Hakimi’s participation became uncertain after suffering a severe right ankle sprain from a tough tackle by Luis Díaz during PSG’s Champions League match against Bayern Munich.

Forced off the field on his 27th birthday, he underwent medical tests that confirmed he would require two weeks of total immobilization followed by at least four weeks of rehabilitation—a timeline that jeopardized his availability for Morocco’s AFCON group stage.

Inside PSG, the concern was clear: while they hoped he might recover in time for the knockout rounds, his chances of starting the tournament were far from guaranteed.

The injury also came at a moment when PSG had multiple players sidelined, but Hakimi’s case was the most delicate due to what he represents for his country and the level of physical demand expected at AFCON.

His Award as African Player of the Year Highlights His Importance

Even while injured, Hakimi reached a milestone in his career by winning the 2025 CAF African Player of the Year award. It was the culmination of an extraordinary season at PSG, where he played 55 matches, scored 11 goals, delivered 14 assists, and helped secure a historic treble: Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and Champions League.

His leadership was just as crucial in guiding Morocco to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, solidifying his status as one of Africa’s greatest modern football icons.
But at the awards ceremony in Rabat, he appeared wearing a protective boot on his injured foot—a symbolic reminder that his availability for AFCON was still in doubt.

The honor recognized his brilliance. The injury exposed his vulnerability at the worst time.

So… Is Achraf Hakimi Included in Morocco’s AFCON Squad?

After weeks of speculation, medical updates, and hopeful projections, Morocco settled the debate: yes, Achraf Hakimi has been officially called up for AFCON 2025.

The PSG full-back appears on the final squad list and will join the team for the home tournament, offering a massive emotional boost to fans and teammates alike. However, his physical condition remains the key variable. The federation and coaching staff are expected to manage his workload with extreme caution, especially in the early stages.

Hakimi is on the list—but his impact will depend entirely on how well he recovers in the coming days. Morocco will handle him carefully, knowing that having him fully fit could be the difference between a deep run and falling short at home.