AZ Alkmaar winger Ayoub Oufkir receives first senior Morocco call-up

Ayoub Oufkir has received his first senior call-up to the Morocco national team after being included in Mohamed Ouahbi’s squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying double-header against Niger.

The 20-year-old winger is among the newcomers named for the Atlas Lions’ November international fixtures, marking a significant milestone in his young career.

Born in Rotterdam on January 4, 2006, Oufkir developed his football in the Netherlands, progressing through Sparta Rotterdam’s youth system before breaking into senior football.

His performances attracted interest from AZ Alkmaar, who signed him in January 2026 on a contract running until June 2030.

From Sparta Rotterdam to AZ Alkmaar

Oufkir’s development has gathered momentum over the past two seasons.

He made his first-team breakthrough at Sparta Rotterdam, featuring in the Eredivisie before securing a move to AZ Alkmaar.

During the 2025-26 campaign, the winger represented both clubs, making 35 senior appearances and scoring four goals across the Dutch league, domestic cup and European competitions.

He has continued his progress this season, registering 10 Eredivisie appearances and two goals for AZ, alongside three appearances in the UEFA Europa League.

Oufkir has also featured three times for Jong AZ, the club’s reserve team, scoring three goals.

European youth champion opts for Morocco

The winger’s international background adds another dimension to his first senior call-up.

Although born in the Netherlands, Oufkir previously represented the European country at Under-19 and Under-21 levels.

He was also part of the Netherlands squad that won the 2025 UEFA European Under-19 Championship, scoring twice during the tournament.

Ouahbi praised the young attacker’s qualities during Wednesday’s press conference, highlighting his pace and technical ability.

“Oufkir stands out for his pace and technical ability. He is excellent at taking on defenders and getting past them, and he also delivers quality crosses,” said Ouahbi.

His decision to represent Morocco at senior level gives the Atlas Lions another attacking option with experience in European youth football.

Ouahbi backs young winger’s potential

The Morocco coach also expressed confidence in Oufkir’s potential, explaining the importance of giving young players opportunities to develop within the national team.

“We want to give these young players a chance because they can develop quickly. In a month or two, they could be performing at a high level and earn a place in the squad for the next AFCON,” Ouahbi said.

Oufkir’s inclusion comes as Morocco prepares for two meetings with Niger in the AFCON 2027 qualifiers.

The first match is scheduled for November 13 at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca, with the return fixture set for November 17 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

Although his first call-up does not guarantee immediate playing time, it offers the young winger an opportunity to adapt to the senior national team and demonstrate his abilities.