Hakimi named in Morocco’s AFCON squad despite injury concerns

RABAT: Hosts Morocco have named African Footballer of the Year Achraf Hakimi in their 26-man squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, expressing full confidence that the star full back will recover from an ankle injury in time for the tournament opener.

Hakimi suffered a severe sprain to his left ankle during Paris Saint-Germain’s 2-1 loss to Bayern Munich in the Champions League last month, raising doubts over his participation. However, coach Walid Regragui has maintained optimism throughout, insisting the captain is on track to return for Morocco’s first match against Comoros on December 21 in Rabat.

“He’s been working hard since his injury and doing what he has to do. He’s a hard worker. He wants to be there from the first match,” Regragui told French radio over the weekend.

Lille striker Hamza Igamane, who injured his adductors in a recent league match against Marseille, was left out of the main squad but has been listed as a reserve as Morocco prepare for a home campaign with high expectations.