Daijiworld Media Network - Rabat

Rabat, Feb 25: Veteran Morocco captain Romain Saiss on Tuesday announced his retirement from international football, drawing the curtain on what he described as “the most beautiful chapter of my life.”

The 35-year-old centre-back said his decision followed “careful reflection” and was taken with “immense emotion,” after battling repeated injuries in recent years.

Saiss, who previously featured for Angers and Wolverhampton Wanderers, struggled with fitness during his final appearances for Morocco. At the last Africa Cup of Nations, he managed just 18 minutes in the opening match against Comoros before being substituted due to a left thigh injury.

“Wearing the colours of Morocco and becoming their captain will remain the greatest honour of my career,” Saiss wrote on social media.

“Every time I wore it, I felt the weight of responsibility, but above all an indescribable pride.”

His brief AFCON return in December had followed an 18-month absence due to injury. Saiss had earlier captained Morocco to a historic semi-final finish at the 2022 FIFA World Cup — the first by an African nation.

His retirement comes just three months ahead of this year’s World Cup, where Morocco are scheduled to face Brazil, Scotland and Haiti in the group stage.

“I will now be your number one supporter,” he said. “I am leaving the national team, but I will forever remain a Lion.”

Saiss will continue his club career with Qatar Stars League side Al Sadd.