Mazraoui's AFCON Participation Uncertain Following Calf Injury
Noussair Mazraoui, the Moroccan right-back, is currently in suspense as he awaits confirmation on his availability for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), having suffered a torn left calf bundle while representing Bayern Munich.
The 24-year-old player was forced to leave the field early in the second half during Bayern's 2-1 Champions League victory over Manchester United on Tuesday night. Reports from Germany's Bild newspaper this morning indicate that the dynamic fullback is expected to be sidelined for at least six weeks.
This prognosis raises significant concerns about Mazraoui's readiness for Morocco's opening AFCON group match against Ghana scheduled for January 10. As a key contributor during Morocco's successful World Cup qualifying campaign, coach Walid Regragui had relied on Mazraoui's dynamic playing style for the tournament in Cameroon.
Now facing an anxious wait, Regragui hopes for Mazraoui's swift recovery, recognizing the player's crucial role in Morocco's pursuit of their first AFCON triumph since 1976. With the tournament rapidly approaching, Mazraoui is in a race against time to overcome this untimely calf injury and secure his place in Morocco's formidable starting XI.