Romain Saiss.jpeg
FOOTBALL

With the World Cup Just Months Away, Morocco Must Prepare Without One of Their Most Iconic Leaders

Morocco's captain calls time on his international career — and the timing couldn't be more bittersweet.

Romain Saïss has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a remarkable career spanning 86 caps for Morocco. The 35-year-old defender made the decision shortly after the Atlas Lions' defeat in the AFCON final against Senegal, choosing to step away at the height of the tournament cycle.

"Wearing the colors of Morocco and becoming its captain will remain the greatest honor of my career," Saïss wrote on Instagram. "Every time I wore it, I felt indescribable pride."

For Morocco, this is a significant blow ahead of the World Cup on their own continent. Saïss has been a cornerstone of their defense for over a decade — replacing his leadership and experience will be far from easy.

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