The Atlas Lions began their preparation on Monday at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Maâmora with an almost complete squad. However, two players were missing from this first session: Achraf Hakimi and Ismael Saibari, who will join their teammates on Wednesday, September 23, as confirmed by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation.
The FRMF did not provide any specific reason for this delayed arrival. The case of Ismael Saibari is particularly noteworthy, as the Bayern Munich midfielder played his last match on Friday against Union Berlin. The Moroccan even contributed to Bayern’s significant victory (7-0) by scoring a goal in the 70th minute.
One element to consider is that Hakimi and Saibari are suspended for the match against Gabon, a consequence of the sanctions imposed by CAF following the incidents that occurred during the CAN 2025 final. Saibari’s suspension was subsequently reduced on appeal to two matches, one of which is suspended. This could allow the coaching staff to manage their arrival differently, although no official link has been established between their suspension and their arrival on Wednesday.
All other summoned players participated in the first session led by Mohamed Ouahbi. Morocco will continue its preparation in Maâmora before facing Gabon on Friday, September 25, at 7 PM at the Moulay Abdellah Complex in Rabat, for the first day of the CAN 2027 qualifiers.
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