Romain Saïss, the steadfast captain of the Moroccan national football team, has officially announced his retirement from international football, ending a legendary 14-year journey with the Atlas Lions.
In an emotional message shared on his social media on Monday, the 35-year-old defender described his time with the national team as the “most beautiful chapter” of his life. “Wearing the colors of Morocco and becoming its captain will remain the greatest honor of my career,” Saïss wrote. “I have always given everything for this flag and for this country that has given me so much.”
Saïss earns his place in the history books as a foundational member of the squad that reached the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar—the first African and Arab nation to do so. His heroic leadership during that campaign was best exemplified when he played through physical pain to anchor the defense, only being forced off by injury during the semi-final clash against France.
Earning 86 caps since his debut in 2012, Saïss evolved from a promising talent into an indispensable leader. In his farewell, he expressed “deep gratitude” to King Mohammed VI and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation for their vision in professionalizing the sport. He also shared a heartfelt message to his teammates, whom he now considers family, and the fans who fueled his performances.
Though his international career concluded following the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations hosted in Morocco, Saïss vowed to remain the team’s “number one supporter.” He closed his statement with a phrase that resonated deeply with the Moroccan public: “I am leaving the national team, but I will remain a Lion for eternity.”
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