Morocco Suffers BIG Blow, THIS FOOTBALLER To Miss 2026 FIFA World Cup

Following their disappointing 1-0 extra-time loss to Senegal in the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Moroccan attacker Hamza Igamane injury news will be a hammer blow for head coach Walid Regragui. The news of Igamane's injury, one of the national team’s emerging attacking options, is reportedly a tear of the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.

The 23-year-old forward, who plays for Ligue 1 side LOSC Lille, will be missing several months of footballing action, casting serious doubts over his availability for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Let's find out more about his injury, and will Hamza Igamane play 2026 FIFA World Cup?

Can Hamza Igamane Injury Rule Him Out Of 2026 FIFA World Cup?

According to an official statement from LOSC Lille, medical assessments confirmed that Igamane faces a long rehabilitation period, a blow that extends far beyond his club commitments. While his parent club must now adjust its attacking plans for the remainder of the domestic and European season, the greater concern lies with Morocco’s squad planning for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States of America.

At just 23, Hamza Igamane has rapidly established himself as an important figure for both club and country. His pace, movement, and finishing ability added a different dimension to Morocco’s forward line, complementing more established names and offering head coach Walid Regragui tactical flexibility. As the 2026 World Cup is only a few months away, his injury significantly narrows Morocco’s attacking depth and disrupts their preparation.

Regragui and Morocco Will Be Hoping For Hamza Igamane Injury Recovery

From a national team perspective, the timing is particularly damaging for Morocco national football team. The months leading up to a World Cup are crucial for building chemistry, integrating tactical systems, and finalising roles within the squad. A prolonged absence means Igamane risks missing not only competitive games and friendlies, but also the opportunity to prove full match fitness and sharpness at the international level. Even if he returns before the tournament, questions will remain about his readiness to compete at the highest intensity.

For Walid Regragui, the injury forces a reassessment of Morocco’s attacking hierarchy. Greater responsibility may now fall on more experienced forwards like Youssef En-Nesyri and Ayoub El Kaabi, while fringe players could be fast-tracked into contention to compensate for Igamane’s absence. However, replacing his profile, a forward capable of stretching defences and pressing aggressively, will not be straightforward.