Amine Adli mourns mother's passing amid Morocco's AFCON preparations

Adli's recent absence from training sessions sparked speculation among fans and commentators. However, the Moroccan Football Federation has since confirmed that his withdrawal was due to the bereavement in his family.

In a statement released on Saturday evening, the Federation expressed heartfelt condolences to the 24-year-old and his family during this difficult time.

"The Moroccan Football Federation, on behalf of its president Fouzi Lekjaa and the national team, extends its sincere condolences to Amine Adli and his family, following the passing of his mother," the statement read, as reported by Morocco World News.

The Leverkusen attacker's absence now holds greater meaning beyond football, as his teammates and coaches rally in support ahead of the continental showpiece. The situation has united the camp in a moment of collective empathy, reinforcing the bond within the squad.

Following Morocco's historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the Atlas Lions are looking to maintain their upward trajectory. Yet, Adli's grief highlights the emotional weight players often carry behind the scenes of elite competition.

Adli, who previously represented France at youth level, committed to Morocco under coach Walid Regragui and has quickly become a key figure in the national setup. His call-up to the AFCON squad was a nod to both his technical skill and growing importance to the team.

While his return to training remains uncertain, Adli's courage in the face of personal loss has resonated deeply with Moroccan supporters and football fans around the continent. His story stands as a powerful reminder that even in the high-stakes world of international football, humanity comes first.