Morocco captain Romain Saïss has officially called time on his international career, bringing to an end more than a decade with the Atlas Lions.
In an emotional message shared on Instagram, the 35-year-old described the decision as closing “the most beautiful chapter” of his football journey. Saïss, who currently plays for Al-Sadd, represented Morocco at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on home soil but featured only in the opening match against Comoros before an injury ruled him out of the rest of the tournament. He confirmed on Monday that he will not be part of Morocco’s plans for the 2026 World Cup.
“Wearing the colors of Morocco and becoming its captain will remain the greatest honour of my career,” Saïss wrote. “This jersey is more than football — it is about roots, family and heart. Every time I wore it, I felt responsibility, but above all, pride.”
Saïss made his debut for Morocco in 2012 and was appointed captain in 2019. Over the years, he represented his country at five AFCON tournaments (2017, 2019, 2021, 2023 and 2025) and two FIFA World Cups (2018 and 2022), playing a key leadership role during one of the most successful eras in Moroccan football history.
