Nayef Aguerd speaks out after withdrawing from Morocco’s World Cup squad

The centre-back was keen to clarify the reasons behind this decision.

Nayef Aguerd’s withdrawal from the Atlas Lions’ World Cup squad was made official on 11 June. However, contrary to what some might have feared, his injury has improved significantly and his physical condition is progressing well.

However, despite this improvement, the Moroccan defender feels he is not yet able to make a full contribution to the national team. Consequently, in consultation with the coaching staff, it was agreed that he would not be at his best for the start of the World Cup, Nayef Aguerd explained in a statement on Instagram.

“It’s not a matter of a fall. On the contrary, I’m feeling better and better day by day and my injury is now behind me. But we judged, together with the coaching staff, that my current level of performance wasn’t yet sufficient to be able to help the team as I would have liked during the group stage. Despite all the efforts made over the last few weeks, it became clear that I wouldn’t be 100% physically ready for the start of the competition. This decision was taken in consultation with the coaching staff, in the interests of the team and the competition. A big thank you to the President of the Federation for providing every possible resource from day one right through to the last to ensure my recovery.”

Morocco kick off their World Cup campaign on 13 June against Brazil in Group C.