Chelsea star Hakim Ziyech says he will not return to the Moroccan national team amid an ongoing war of words with head coach Vahid Halilhodzic.
Ziyech was excluded from Morocco's Afcon squad and, after they're elimination, Halilhodzic said Ziyech would not be welcomed back into the team "even if his name was Lionel Messi".
And the Chelsea star has now responded, hitting back by accusing the coach of "lying" while agreeing that he will not return play for his country.
"I understand them, but I will not return to the Moroccan national team and this is my final decision," Ziyech told ADSportsTV. "
"It's all clear for me how things are going over there and I am focusing on what I am doing and, right now, that is my club.
"At the end of the day, it's a decision he makes and you have to respect it. All the lying that comes with it, it's, for me, clear and I will not return to the national team.
"I understand and feel sorry for [the fans], but that's the situation we're in."
Nisdoruy
182
if I was me I'll do the same thing I agree with you 100% bro focus on Chelsea baby we love you here feel at home boy
josilva877
133
I blame Morocco Government. you sign a coach and he removed best player of your country out of the list. combination of Ziyech and Hackimi alway help Morocco. you send one away and you want to be successful, let wait and see. Zeyich is enjoy Champions league holder, Super Cup, World Club Cup is loading and Carabao Cup. Ziyech continue your enjoyment leave Crazy coach alone
Chelseawealth
101
You don't mess with my idol, love you more my magician
Renacdkpr
86
They’re both letting their egos destroy something that could have been very special.. coaches don’t play and players don’t coach it’s a matter of each doing their fair share of the task ahead … above all RESPECT ✊ for each other..!!
Ageerjok
39
He has made the right decision to quit the National Team. If people don't want you, you do nothing but accept it.
fichi1999
38
don't listen to all this Chelsea fans they want someone to abandon their country for their sake no matter what don't forget where you came from