Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi explains Youssef En-Nesyri’s return to Atlas Lions squad

Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has insisted that Youssef En-Nesyri was never dropped from his plans after recalling the striker for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Niger.

The 29-year-old Al-Ittihad forward was included in Morocco’s 26-man squad announced on Wednesday, marking his return after missing the recent international gatherings, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking at a press conference at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, Ouahbi explained that the technical team had continued monitoring the striker’s performances in Saudi Arabia despite his absence from the squad.

“We have watched all his matches with Al-Ittihad, whether in the AFC Champions League, the cup or the league. We make sure to watch his matches every week,” Ouahbi said.

En-Nesyri never excluded from Morocco plans

Ouahbi dismissed suggestions that the experienced forward had fallen out of favour with the national team, explaining that the coaching staff had simply wanted to give other attacking players opportunities to prove themselves.

“En-Nesyri was never a player we put aside or ruled out of our plans. We simply preferred to give other players the opportunity to get enough playing time and show what they could do,” he explained.

The former Sevilla striker was part of Morocco’s historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, scoring the winning goal against Portugal in the quarter-finals.

However, Ouahbi opted for Ayoub El Kaabi and other attacking options at the 2026 tournament, with their characteristics better suited to his plans at the time.

Ouahbi highlights En-Nesyri’s importance

The Morocco coach believes En-Nesyri offers a different attacking option and could prove valuable as the Atlas Lions prepare for their upcoming fixtures.

Ouahbi stressed the importance of giving the striker an opportunity to demonstrate his qualities within the team’s playing style.

“We know Youssef very well, but it is also important to be fair to him and give him the opportunity to show what he can do within our style of play,” Ouahbi said.

The coach also highlighted how the presence of younger attacking players, including Yassir Zabiri and Yassir Oufkir, could complement En-Nesyri’s strengths.

He suggested that Oufkir’s crossing ability could create opportunities for the Al-Ittihad forward inside the penalty area.

“I believe he can contribute to the team, and this is the right time to call him up. He deserves this opportunity, and we are very happy to have him in the squad,” Ouahbi concluded.

Morocco prepare for Niger double-header

Morocco currently lead Group A of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers with six points after victories over Gabon and Lesotho.

The Atlas Lions will face Niger on November 13 at Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca before meeting the same opponents again on November 17 at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

Both matches are scheduled to kick off at 8pm.