OM get Aguerd boost as Morocco manages his return

Marseille have received a rare piece of good news during an international break that has already weakened their defensive options. Nayef Aguerd was held back by Morocco to continue his return programme, giving Bruno Genesio a better chance of recovering an important defender without further risk.

Aguerd did not travel to South Africa for Morocco’s meeting with Lesotho. He remained at the Mohammed VI Complex and worked with the country’s under-23 technical staff on an individual plan. His absence is not linked to a fresh worrying injury, and he remains available to Morocco’s senior team for the friendly against Ghana on 4 October.

The decision matters to Marseille because Aguerd has become a key part of Genesio’s defence. The back line has changed repeatedly this season after the departures of Benjamin Pavard and Leonardo Balerdi, alongside injuries and several combinations being tested. Aguerd’s return to the starting team had already helped against Paris Saint-Germain.

His careful management is even more valuable after Derek Cornelius suffered a hip injury in training with Canada. The Marseille defender is not expected back before 2027, removing another option from the rotation. Morocco’s choice to continue Aguerd’s recovery rather than select him for the Lesotho trip therefore gives Marseille some relief during a difficult break.