Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi dismisses Netherlands claims over Ayoub Oufkir call-up

Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has insisted that Ayoub Oufkir earned his first senior national team call-up through his performances and qualities, dismissing suggestions that the decision was intended to prevent the young forward from representing the Netherlands.

Ouahbi made the comments after Morocco’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Niger in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers on Friday, November 13.

The match marked a memorable occasion for Oufkir, who scored his first international goal after coming off the bench in the closing stages.

The AZ Alkmaar forward found the net following an assist from fellow youngster and Ajax midfielder Abdullah Ouzane, highlighting the growing contribution of Morocco’s emerging talents.

Ouahbi reveals long-standing interest in Oufkir

Speaking at his post-match press conference, Ouahbi explained that Morocco had monitored Oufkir for several years before handing him his senior international opportunity.

The coach revealed that he had previously considered calling up the forward during his time with Morocco’s Under-20 national team.

“I have been following him for a long time, particularly during my time with the Under-20 national team, when I wanted to bring him into the squad. We have never lost sight of him,” Ouahbi said.

He added that Oufkir’s performance against Niger demonstrated why he deserved a place in the senior squad.

“What he showed today proves that he deserves to be with us,” the coach added.

Morocco coach highlights Oufkir’s attacking qualities

Ouahbi also outlined the qualities that made the young forward an attractive option for the Atlas Lions.

He pointed to Oufkir’s ability to create attacking depth, his energy, dynamism and technical ability as important attributes that could strengthen Morocco’s attacking options.

“He has outstanding qualities, including his ability to create attacking depth, his great energy, his dynamism, and his high technical ability,” Ouahbi explained.

The Morocco coach was also keen to dismiss suggestions that the call-up was a deliberate attempt to influence the player’s international future or prevent him from choosing the Netherlands.

“We did not call him up to push him into choosing Morocco by force, but because he earns his place through his level and current performances,” he said.

Oufkir’s debut goal against Niger provided an encouraging start to his senior international career as he begins his journey with the Atlas Lions.