The three reasons that led Romain Saiss to call time on his Morocco career | OneFootball

Poll

Why did he end his international career?

Romain Saiss/@FRMF

The captain of the "Atlas Lions," Romain Saiss, has decided to bring his international career to an end.

A rather surprising decision, especially coming just a few months before the start of the2026 FIFA World Cup finals.

"Today, I am closing the most beautiful chapter of my life as a footballer. After careful consideration, it is with immense emotion that I announce my international retirement. Wearing Morocco's colors and becoming its captain will remain the greatest honor of my career," he wrote in a message posted on his Instagram account.

Here are the three reasons that pushed Romain Saiss to say stop with the Atlas Lions.

A string of injuries

At 35 years old, the Al-Sadd defender has been hampered by a series of physical setbacks, preventing him from returning to his best form. During the last Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025), he only managed to play a few minutes against Comoros before suffering a muscle injury that sidelined him for the rest of the tournament.

Criticism from fans

Atlas Lions supporters did not hold back on social media, criticizing him harshly for his physical condition and what they saw as average performances. Aware of this lack of support, the player chose to leave the national team with dignity.

No longer part of Regragui's plans

Several Moroccan sources reported that Romain Saiss was no longer in Walid Regragui's plans for upcoming competitions. The main reasons were his underwhelming display in the AFCON opener and his recurring injuries, which have prevented him from being competitive at the highest level..