Ismaël Kandouss has broken his silence over his absence from the Moroccan national team, revealing he has received no communication from head coach Walid Regragui since his debut in June 2023.
The 26-year-old defender, who now plays in Saudi Arabia with Al-Orobah, voiced his feelings in an interview with Moroccan outlet Le360, expressing both confusion and hope regarding his international future.
After moving from Belgian side KAA Gent to Al-Orobah last summer, Kandouss has enjoyed a strong debut season in the Saudi First Division.
The French-born centre-back has been a regular fixture in the starting lineup, forming a solid defensive partnership with former France international of Central African origin, Kurt Zouma.
Reflecting on his experience in Saudi Arabia, Kandouss was candid in his praise for the level of football in the region.
“Technically, it’s much stronger than people expect,” he said. “There are good players, excellent facilities, and above all, a lot of intensity. I’ve been positively surprised.”
Despite his successful club campaign, the Moroccan international has not been called up to the national team since earning his first and only cap in a goalless draw against Cape Verde in June 2023.
Substituted at half-time in that match, Kandouss says he hasn’t heard from the national team setup since.
“Regragui took me off at half-time in that 0–0 draw, and I haven’t heard anything since,” he explained. “I tried to contact him, but there was no response. Still, I remain focused. I’ve never given up.”
While the silence has been frustrating, Kandouss insists he holds no resentment and remains fully committed to representing his country.
“Morocco is my homeland,” he affirmed. “Wearing that jersey is an honour. I still believe.”
His message echoes a similar situation involving fellow Moroccan defender Jawad El-Yamiq, who in February publicly expressed his desire to return to the national squad after a long absence.
Then playing in Saudi Arabia with Al-Wehda, El-Yamiq had not been selected in two years but was recalled just a month later for Morocco’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Whether Kandouss’s statement will prompt a similar response from Regragui remains to be seen, but the message is clear: the defender still has aspirations of contributing to Morocco’s national team and is ready should the opportunity arise.
Asked about speculation linking him with a move to Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca, Kandouss was quick to play down the rumours.
“I saw the reports in the media,” he said. “My agent mentioned there was some interest during the winter, but I was never contacted directly. There’s nothing concrete.”
For now, Kandouss appears focused on continuing his development with Al-Orobah and staying prepared for any opportunity that may come his way, whether at the club or international level.
His journey reflects the challenges many dual-national players face, but his commitment to Morocco remains unwavering. Whether Regragui is listening—or will respond—remains the open question.
