Morocco preliminary squad for 2026 World Cup was submitted to FIFA this week as coach Mohamed Ouahbi named a 55‑man list. As a Moroccan reporter, I see this list as the start of a national conversation. The selection mixes established internationals with promising youngsters.
Morocco preliminary squad for 2026 World Cup: what the list tells us
Ouahbi used the full allowance of 55 players to give his staff options and cover for injuries. The list must be trimmed to 23–26 players by 2 June, and only those named can make the final squad under FIFA rules. This expanded pool gives the coach room to test combinations in friendlies and camps.
Key names and local reactions
We welcome the return of Nayef Aguerd, who is recovering from injury and remains central to our defensive plans. Veteran goalkeeper Munir Mohamedi also returns, offering experience between the posts. Young forward Othmane Maamma earns his place after strong club form, and midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi has committed his future to Morocco, a boost for our talent pipeline. Fans in Rabat and Casablanca have already debated these inclusions on social media and in cafés.
What comes next for the Atlas Lions
Ouahbi now faces hard choices. He must balance experience with youth, manage fitness concerns and build a cohesive unit for the World Cup in North America. We expect a series of warm‑up matches to reveal final roles and to test defensive pairings and midfield balance. The federation will monitor players closely until the June deadline.
A national perspective
This preliminary list signals ambition and depth. As Moroccan journalists, we will follow each training camp and friendly. Our focus will be on who can handle the pressure of a World Cup stage and who can carry the national team forward.