Morocco captain Romain Saiss has announced his retirement from international football just four months away from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Afrosport reports.
The 35-year-old was part of the Atlas Lions at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. He however featured for just 19 minutes in their group opener against Comoros after picking up a muscle injury which saw him miss the rest of the tournament, with the hosts ultimately finishing as runners-up to Senegal in the final.
Morocco are set to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico where they will face Scotland, Brazil and Haiti in Group C.
“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 said in an Instagram post.
“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.”
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Saiss made his debut for Morocco in 2012 and earned 86 caps, scoring three goals and providing one assist. He featured at five Africa Cup of Nations (2017, 2019, 2021, 2023, 2025) and two World Cups (2018 and 2022).
He currently plays for Qatari club Al-Sadd. He was previously on the books of Valence, Clermont Foot, Le Havre and Angers in France before moving to Wolverhampton Wanderers and Besiktas in the Premier League and Turkish Super Lig respectively.
