Hakim Ziyech Rules Out Morocco Return After Pre-Selection

Originally posted on FanNation Absolute Chelsea
By Matt Debono | Last updated 3/13/22

Hakim Ziyech has confirmed he will not be returning to the Moroccan National Team despite being included for pre-selection.

The 28-year-old has ruled out playing for his country again after the continued 'misinformation' about the winger's commitment to his country.

Ziyech, who broke his silence after Chelsea's 1-0 win over Newcastle United on Sunday afternoon, was pre-selected, alongside Noussair Mazraoui, by Chairman of the Moroccan federation Fouzi Lekjaa.

"I can confirm that (Hakim) Ziyech and (Noussair) Mazraoui have been included in the Morocco pre-selection (door is open for return)," Lekjaa said.

But the Chelsea star has rejected the offer and released a statement explaining his reasons for not returning to play for his country.

What Hakim Ziyech has said

He wrote on Instagram: "I love my country and playing for the Moroccan national football team has been the honour of my lifetime, so it is with great sadness that I must announce that although the FRMF President today confirmed that I will be pre-selected for the team, I won’t be returning to play for Morocco.

"I’m sorry to disappoint the fans, this was not an easy decision to make, but sadly I feel I have no other choice.

"Despite giving my all to the team over the past 6 years and supporting them my entire life, the leadership continue to release misinformation about me and my commitment to my country. Their actions have made it impossible for me to continue to be part of the team.

"I learned the news about the pre-selection at the same time as everyone else, so I’m releasing this statement to ensure that you hear the truth directly from me.

"Thank you to everyone who has supported me, I wish the team nothing but the best for the future.

"My focus as a player is at my club Chelsea FC."

This article first appeared on FanNation Absolute Chelsea and was syndicated with permission.

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