Morocco coach Walid Regragui explained that he sent Sofyan Amrabat home because the Fiorentina midfielder ‘will soon sign for a new club’.
The 26-year-old shot to prominence for his work at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, playing a crucial role in the Atlas Lions’ historic run to the semi-finals. Immediately after his return from the tournament, he became the subject of interest to a number of clubs around Europe.
Barcelona tried to make a late move for Amrabat in the January transfer window, but their offer failed to convince, leaving the Moroccan with Fiorentina for the remainder of the season.
Speaking in a press conference, Regragui explained why he released Amrabat from international duty early.
“I have decided to let him go, he will not play. He has played so many games this year, I don’t want to risk him, especially as he will soon sign with a new club.”
Manchester United and Barcelona are reportedly interested in signing Amrabat, and his brother Nordin told ESPN that the latter club was his preferred choice.
The Moroccan midfielder hinted at a departure this summer on his Instagram page after the Europa Conference League final loss to West Ham, saying he “was proud to have been a part of this team”.