Morocco recall Youssef En-Nesyri as Mohamed Ouahbi explains surprise return

Youssef En-Nesyri has been recalled to the Morocco squad for the two-match meeting with Niger on 13 and 17 November, after being left out of Mohamed Ouahbi’s plans since the coach took charge.

The Al-Ittihad striker, who has 92 international caps and 25 goals, was one of the notable omissions from Morocco’s recent squads. His return is Ouahbi’s first selection of the former Sevilla forward since becoming head coach.

En-Nesyri had not played for Morocco since the last Africa Cup of Nations, where he endured a disappointing tournament personally and failed to score. He had been a regular under Walid Regragui, competing with Ayoub El Kaabi for the central striking position.

However, Ouahbi has introduced a different attacking approach. The new coach favours forwards who can help build play, drop into deeper areas and combine in tight spaces. Ismael Saibari has frequently operated in a false nine role under him.

En-Nesyri offers a different profile. He is primarily a penalty-box striker, dangerous in the air, effective when running in behind and a reliable finisher, but less comfortable when asked to contribute to the creative side of the attack.

Ouahbi said the striker had remained under close observation despite his absence from the squad.

“He has been monitored like all the players from the first day with Al-Ittihad. In the Champions League, the cup, the league… We watch his matches every week,” he said at a news conference.

“Today, his profile can bring us something, especially against a team like Niger. He is not a player we have set aside. We have prioritised other players. He is someone we know very well, but we also have to be honest with him and give him the opportunity to show himself in our style of play. We are very happy to be able to select him.”

Morocco’s attacking options have been significantly reduced by the absence of Saibari, Rahimi, El Kaabi and Igamane. En-Nesyri’s experience and distinctive qualities therefore make his inclusion a logical solution, even if the selection has also been influenced by the shortage of alternatives.

The call-up could give the 28-year-old an opportunity to revive his position within the national team. He is eight appearances short of reaching 100 caps and has rediscovered his form in Saudi Arabia, scoring seven goals in 13 league matches.

Morocco will be strong favourites against Niger, and En-Nesyri’s movement in the penalty area and finishing could provide valuable options. The matches will also test whether he can adapt to Ouahbi’s tactical demands and establish himself as more than a replacement brought in by circumstance.