Morocco boss Ouahbi explains El Karouani omission from latest squad

Souffian El Karouani has been left out of Morocco’s squad for the next international break, despite making his first start for a long time in Benfica’s Europa League match against AC Milan on Wednesday.

The 25-year-old defender provided an assist in the game, but Morocco manager Mohamed Ouahbi said he had assessed the player’s overall performance rather than focusing solely on that contribution.

“Regarding El Karouani, you saw the assist he provided yesterday, but I watched the match and I did not judge him only on that pass,” Ouahbi said at a news conference.

El Karouani played an important role for Benfica during their Europa League meeting with AC Milan, but his absence from the Morocco squad means he will not feature during the upcoming international break.

Ouahbi confirmed that the defender remains under consideration and has been monitored since last season.

“He is a player we have been following since last season; he has excellent qualities and plays for a big club,” the Morocco manager said. “He came close to joining us.”

The manager added that El Karouani’s international prospects remain open and urged him to maintain his efforts.

“The door is closed to no-one, and he simply has to continue working hard. I think he will get his chance,” said Ouahbi.

The Morocco manager has instead called up Ajax player Adellah Ouazane for the next international break.

El Karouani joined Al Qadsiah from FC Utrecht last summer. However, Saudi Arabian regulations meant he was unlikely to receive significant playing time there. Clubs in Saudi Arabia are permitted to register only eight foreign players aged over 23.

As a result, El Karouani moved to Benfica on loan. His recent start and assist against AC Milan have brought renewed attention to his form, although Ouahbi has chosen not to include him in the latest Morocco squad.