Morocco’s national football team has received a significant boost ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar with the return of star winger Hakim Ziyech. The Chelsea player is set to rejoin the Atlas Lions after ending his self-imposed exile from international duty.
The reconciliation was confirmed following a meeting in London between Ziyech, new Morocco head coach Walid Regragui, and federation president Fouzi Lekjaa. This discussion successfully resolved the differences that led to Ziyech’s retirement from the national team in February of this year.
Ziyech’s initial decision came after a reported falling out with former coach Vahid Halilhodžić, who had excluded him from the squad for the Africa Cup of Nations. The talented 29-year-old had publicly stated his chapter with the national side was closed.
However, the appointment of Regragui as Halilhodžić’s successor opened the door for a return. The new coach made it a priority to reintegrate the experienced attacker, viewing him as a crucial weapon for the World Cup campaign. Regragui is expected to officially announce his first squad list next week, with Ziyech’s name prominently featured.
His return provides a major lift for Morocco, who face a formidable Group F containing Croatia, Belgium, and Canada. The team’s attacking options are now significantly enhanced with Ziyech’s creativity and technical quality back in the fold.
The news has been met with widespread celebration from Moroccan fans, who are eager to see one of their most gifted players represent the country on the world’s biggest stage this November.
