While the regulations allow for the selection of 28 players, Hoalid Regragui has chosen to call up 26 players, accompanied by two reserves. This decision was carefully considered, informed by past experiences.
The coach recalled that during the World Cup, Morocco operated with a squad of 26 players, whereas in the previous CAN, some additional players often found themselves in the stands. Concerned about maintaining the balance of the locker room, Regragui favored a tighter group, believing that beyond 26 players, human management becomes more challenging.
Regarding the reserves, Hamza Igamane and Youssef Belammari, the Moroccan coach made a strong personal choice. Despite being affected by an injury with an uncertain recovery, Igamane will nonetheless join the group to begin his treatment, with the hope of being able to contribute during the competition. Regragui compared this gamble to similar situations in the past, asserting that he fully accepts this risk. Belammari, for his part, will remain with his club but is available if needed. The players involved have been informed of this approach, which is primarily aimed at ensuring group cohesion.
