Chelsea's Prince Ziyech has made a shocking announcement, revealing he will not return to Moroccan duty as he retires from the national team.
The 28-year-old did not travel to the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations with his side but remained at Chelsea.
And now, speaking to the press in Abu Dhabi via Zach Lowery, he revealed that he has retired from national duty.
Hakim Ziyech has announced his retirement from international duty with Morocco. pic.twitter.com/EFpBSLF8nJ
— Zach Lowy (@ZachLowy) February 8, 2022
In the surprising revelation, Ziyech said: "Obviously I understand him but I will not return to the national team. It's my final decision. It's all clear to me how things are going there." .
"I'm focused on what I'm doing, and that's my club. At the end of the day he (the manager) makes the decision. You have to respect that. But if all the lies come with it, it's obvious." Me. I will not return to the national team. I understand (fans upset), I feel sorry for them.
The Blues forward was dropped from his country's squad due to his poor relationship with Wahid Hlillhodzik, who hasn't played since June 2021.
"The players I have picked are the best in the country," he said. “I don't pick a player who can unbalance the group.
"Even if his name is Lionel Messi. Ziyach's behavior is not conducive to selection.
"He doesn't want to train, doesn't want to play. He doesn't take it seriously. I won't beg him to come back."
And it looks like she won't have to beg him, as Ziych has made his decision. Perhaps this can be reversed if Hlillhodzik steps down.
The Moroccan has been in fine form for Chelsea over the past month, winning the club's Goal of the Month award for his strike against Tottenham Hotspur.