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Morocco’s talented midfielder, Sofyan Amrabat, has been forced to withdraw from the national squad following an issue detected during his medical examination with Manchester United.
The 27-year-old Moroccan sealed a move to United on the final day of the transfer window, initially joining on loan with an option for a permanent deal next summer. This transfer saga had its fair share of twists and turns, with negotiations between United and Amrabat’s parent club, Fiorentina, dragging on.
Initially, United proposed a loan fee of €2 million, with only €1 million guaranteed due to a proposed break clause in January. Fiorentina rejected this offer, valuing Amrabat higher, especially considering his contract expires next summer, which could have resulted in losing him for free.
Eventually, the two parties reached an agreement, with United agreeing to an £8 million loan fee and an obligation to purchase Amrabat for £21 million next summer.
However, reports from The Athletic indicate that during Amrabat’s medical, United identified a minor back injury. While it wasn’t deemed a serious issue and the signing was completed, the 27-year-old has opted to withdraw from international duty as a precaution.
Amrabat was initially called up for Morocco’s upcoming matches against Liberia and Burkina Faso. Still, he will no longer participate in either game and has been replaced by another player, Yahya Jabrane, according to an announcement by the country’s national football federation, the FMRF.
Despite the setback, it’s worth noting that Amrabat’s back injury is not considered severe, and the decision to withdraw was made to allow him ample time for a complete recovery.
This injury adds to Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag’s list of challenges, as he already has several players, including new signing Rasmus Hojlund, recovering from back injuries. Additionally, Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw, and Tyrell Malacia are currently sidelined with injuries of their own.
