Morocco’s Key Players to Watch Against France in 2026 World Cup

Achraf Hakimi stands out as the brightest star Morocco has ever produced in football. While legends like Larbi Ben Barek, Noureddine Naybet, and Yassine Bounou have earned respect and admiration, Hakimi's level of fame is on a different plane. He has built a reputation among some of the world’s elite clubs. Starting his journey at Real Madrid, he moved on to Borussia Dortmund, Inter Milan, and then Paris Saint-Germain. At PSG, he celebrated his first Champions League victory in 2025. Reflecting on his career, Hakimi mentioned, "I don’t know if Luis Enrique changed my career, but his arrival changed how the world of football sees me." In early 2026, he faced serious allegations of rape, which he denies outright.

A Rising Force: Neil El Aynaoui

Despite only joining the Moroccan national team in September 2025, Neil El Aynaoui is quickly becoming one of their standout players. His father, Younes El Ayanoui, is a well-known Moroccan tennis figure, but Neil has carved his own path in football. A versatile midfielder, he excels at winning back possession and driving forward in attack. After impressing with Lens, he transferred to Roma last summer. Though initially met with skepticism and limited game time, he has grown into a key player under coach Gian Piero Gasperini. If Morocco hopes to make waves in the World Cup, El Aynaoui’s role will be vital.

The Unsung Leader: Noussair Mazraoui

Noussair Mazraoui may not grab headlines as easily, yet his contribution is immense. Typically positioned as a right back, his flexibility is remarkable. At Manchester United, he has been deployed in six different roles, ranging from central defense to attacking midfield. For Morocco, he usually plays left back, providing defensive cover and often supporting attacks when Hakimi pushes forward. Mazraoui steps up especially as a leader when Hakimi is absent, ensuring the team stays focused and organized. His commitment speaks volumes about his importance to the squad.