Ouahbi Faces Defensive Selection Dilemma Ahead of Morocco’s September Camp

Rabat – Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi is preparing to make changes to the national team’s defensive setup ahead of the September international break, according to Moroccan sports newspaper Almountakhab.

The Atlas Lions are expected to play at least three international matches during the upcoming break, including two key fixtures against Gabon in Rabat and Lesotho in Bloemfontein as part of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

Several key absences could leave Ouahbi with limited defensive options. According to Almountakhab, Marouan Saadane and Redouane Halhal will miss the upcoming camp, while Chadi Riad is still recovering from a knee injury.

The absences could force Ouahbi to look for new options in central defense as Morocco prepares for their next competitive fixtures.

One positive development, however, is the expected return of Nayef Aguerd. The defender has recovered from his injury and could provide valuable experience to Morocco’s backline.

Ouahbi is also expected to keep Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal among his defensive options following the young defender’s strong performances with French club Rennes.

Meanwhile, Issa Diop and Ismail Baouf are reportedly among the players under consideration to strengthen the defensive department.

The upcoming camp could therefore mark the beginning of a new phase for Morocco’s defense, as Ouahbi looks to maintain the team’s competitiveness while introducing fresh options.

The matches against Gabon and Lesotho will provide an important test of these changes and could give several emerging defenders an opportunity to establish themselves with the national team.

With the 2027 AFCON qualifiers approaching, Ouahbi will be hoping to build a balanced and reliable defensive unit capable of competing at the highest level.