Morocco star Hakim Ziyech has responded with maturity and grace after being left out of the Atlas Lions squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, insisting he holds no resentment over the decision.

The creative midfielder, who recently completed a move to Moroccan giants Wydad AC, did not make head coach Walid Regragui’s final squad for the continental tournament being staged on home soil. Ziyech’s omission followed a period of inconsistent club form, which ultimately worked against him during the selection process.

Speaking candidly in an interview, the former Ajax and Chelsea playmaker acknowledged the coach’s decision, describing his exclusion as fair and understandable.

“The reason for my absence from the Africa Cup of Nations is, first and foremost, logical. Perhaps I haven’t performed well enough over the past two seasons to impress the coach,” Ziyech said, as quoted by Soccer212.
“The most important thing is that my teammates win the title so we can all celebrate.”

Despite the absence of one of their most recognizable stars, Morocco have continued to shine at AFCON 2025. The Atlas Lions have already secured a place in the quarter-finals and are now preparing for a high-stakes clash against Cameroon on Saturday, January 10, 2026, with both sides chasing a spot in the last four.

Ziyech’s legacy with the national team remains firmly intact. Since making his debut in 2015, he has earned 64 caps for Morocco and scored 25 goals. His first appearance came in a friendly against Rwanda, where the Atlas Lions claimed a 3–1 victory—marking the beginning of a distinguished international career.

For now, Ziyech watches from afar, hopeful and supportive, as Morocco continue their quest for continental glory on home ground.