Moroccan international defender Nayef Aguerd is facing a significant injury setback, raising concerns about his fitness ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Olympique de Marseille player has been diagnosed with a persistent groin injury (pubalgia) and recently underwent surgery to address the issue.
The procedure, confirmed by his club, is expected to sideline the 30-year-old for the remainder of the 2025-26 Ligue 1 season. His recovery timeline places his participation in the upcoming World Cup, to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, in serious doubt.
Aguerd is a key figure for the Moroccan national team, having been a stalwart in their historic run to the 2022 World Cup semi-finals. His potential absence would be a major blow to the Atlas Lions' defensive preparations for the tournament.
Club and national team medical staff are monitoring his rehabilitation closely. No official return date has been set, with his focus entirely on a complete recovery.
