Morocco coach Walid Regragui opts for caution regarding Achraf Hakimi’s return. Photo Credit: FRMF
According to Akhbarona.com, The moroccan head coach Walid Regragui has chosen a cautious approach regarding Achraf Hakimi’s fitness at AFCON 2025. The Moroccan star is set to miss the group-stage matches as the technical staff focus on ensuring his full readiness for the knockout rounds.
A carefully considered medical decision
The decision follows in-depth discussions between Hakimi, Regragui, and the national team’s medical staff. The right-back is recovering from an ankle injury that sidelined him for several weeks in recent months.
After a detailed medical assessment, the technical and medical teams agreed that rushing Hakimi back could increase the risk of relapse and potentially compromise his availability later in the tournament.
Managing risk ahead of decisive matches
By opting for rest during the group phase, Morocco aim to preserve Hakimi’s physical condition and mental sharpness for the most demanding stages of the competition.
The plan is for the Paris Saint-Germain defender to return at full capacity from the round of 16, where match intensity and physical demands increase significantly.
A context that allows strategic rotation
This approach has been made possible by Morocco’s positive start to AFCON 2025, following their opening win against Comoros and the draw between Mali and Zambia.
With qualification looking increasingly secure, Regragui has greater flexibility to manage key players responsibly. Hakimi remains one of the team’s core figures, expected to play a decisive role once the tournament reaches its critical moments.
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