Romain Saïss announces international retirement after 86 Morocco caps | OneFootball

Romain Saïss has retired from international football at 35 after 86 caps and 3 goals for Morocco. The player said in a post that he was ending his Atlas Lions career.

His decision comes in the wake of a home Africa Cup of Nations, where a hamstring problem limited him to 18 minutes for the host nation. The former Angers midfielder has been a mainstay in recent years.

He was a leading figure in the 2022 World Cup run that ended with a 0-2 semi-final defeat by France. Saïss went off injured in the 21st minute, having already been hampered by a muscle issue.

In his message, he described closing the finest chapter of his playing life and an emotional decision. Wearing Morocco’s colours and captaining the team was, for him, the greatest honour of his career.

He thanked team-mates, coaches, medical and backroom staff, and hailed the unconditional support of Morocco’s fans. He believes the national team’s future looks bright and wished it many trophies. He pledged to be their first, faithful and passionate supporter, whatever happens, and to remain a Lion forever.

Source: L'Équipe