Benatia puts Morocco career on hold

Juventus defender Mehdi Benatia has decided to take a break from international duties with Morocco until his future with parent club Bayern Munich has been settled.

The 42-time capped Atlas Lions skipper took to Facebook Wednesday to announce his compromise, saying, "You know the attachment I have for my country, so it was with great emotion that I've decided to not play for the national team in the upcoming set of matches until my club situation evolves."

Benatia does not provide a timeline for his return to Herve Renard's Morocco setup, but is certain to miss a pair of international friendlies against Burkina Faso (March 24) and Tunisia (March 28). Morocco continues its World Cup qualifying campaign in August when it hosts Group C foe Mali.

After joining Bayern Munich in 2014 from Roma on a five-year deal, the 29-year-old native of Parisian suburb Courcouronnes made the switch to Juventus this summer on season-long loan. Forced to deputise for the likes of Old Lady first-choice trio Andrea Barzagli, Giorgio Chiellini, and Leonardo Bonucci, Benatia has appeared in just 10 Serie A matches paired with four run outs in the Champions League.

"I find it unfair to play in the national team setup by being short of competition and taking the place of another player more apt," Benatia added.

"For 10 years, I have always represented Morocco and given the maximum despite all the difficulties encountered. It has always been, and will always be an honour to represent my country."