Morocco Captain Romain Saiss Retires from International Football
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| Morocco captain Romain Saiss steps aside ahead of 2026 World Cup |
Romain Saiss ends illustrious Morocco career, citing repeated injuries. Moroccan football legend Saiss retires from international football after 86 caps.
“I’ve always given everything for this flag and for this country that has given me so much, constantly guided by love for our nation...”
Morocco captain Romain Saiss has announced his retirement from international football, ending a 13-year career with the Atlas Lions. The 35-year-old defender, who played for Wolverhampton Wanderers, cited repeated injuries as a reason for his decision, including a muscle injury during the Africa Cup of Nations.
Saiss, who made his debut in 2012, earned 86 caps and captained Morocco to the 2022 World Cup semi-final. His leadership also guided the team to the AFCON 2025 final, where they lost to Senegal. “Wearing the colours of Morocco and becoming its captain will remain the greatest honour of my career,” Saiss wrote on social media.
Romain Saiss, the Moroccan football legend, has announced his retirement from international football, just months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With an impressive 86 caps to his name, Saiss made his debut in November 2012 against Togo and has been a stalwart for the 1976 African champions. His decision comes after repeated injuries, including a recent one during the Africa Cup of Nations.
Saiss expressed his gratitude and pride in representing Morocco, saying, “Wearing the colours of Morocco and becoming their captain will remain the greatest honour of my career.”
“Dear fans of Morocco. Today, I close the most beautiful chapter of my football life. After careful consideration, it is with immense emotion that I announce my international retirement,” Saiss wrote on his Instagram account.
“Wearing the colours of Morocco and becoming its captain will remain the greatest honour of my career. For me, this jersey transcends sport: it’s a story of roots, family, and heart.
“Every time I’ve worn it, I’ve felt the weight of responsibility, but above all, an indescribable pride. As a child, I dreamed of these moments.
“I’ve always given everything for this flag and for this country that has given me so much, constantly guided by love for our nation and respect for its people.”
Romain Saiss's recurring injuries had put his spot in the Moroccan national team at risk, and a muscle injury during AFCON didn't help. The Al-Sadd defender only featured briefly against Comoros before being ruled out, sparking doubts about his future with the Atlas Lions.
Al Hilal goalkeeper Yassine Bounou took to social media to bid Saiss a warm farewell, calling him a true legend of Moroccan football. "You'll be missed, brother,” Bounou wrote, showing respect for Saiss's dedication and service to the team.
“Dear captain, thank you for all the moments we shared together. It was a great honor to share this journey with you. You are a legend of our team, and most importantly, you are a great person with high values.'
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