Moroccan international Soufiane El-Faouzi has explained his decision to represent Morocco rather than Germany, describing his commitment to the Atlas Lions as a personal choice driven by emotion and his positive experience with the national team. El-Faouzi, a midfielder for Schalke, made his international debut for Morocco in a 5-0 friendly win over Burundi in May. Despite remaining eligible to play for Germany, he chose to continue representing Morocco.
El-Faouzi's decision to represent Morocco was influenced by his first experience with the Atlas Lions. He recalled that his international debut was a positive experience, and he had a good relationship with the coach. The midfielder described his subsequent decision to continue with Morocco as "a decision from the heart." This choice was made despite speculation about a possible call-up to Germany under Jurgen Klopp.
El-Faouzi also pointed to Morocco's performances at the last two FIFA World Cups as an important source of motivation. He expressed enthusiasm about becoming part of the national team's continuing development. The midfielder added that he was excited about joining the squad again and contributing to its future. Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi selected El-Faouzi for the upcoming international fixtures.
El-Faouzi could now make his first competitive appearance for Morocco during the opening matches of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. The Atlas Lions will host Gabon in Rabat on September 25 before facing Lesotho in Bloemfontein, South Africa, on September 29. Morocco will also play Ghana in a friendly in Tangier on October 4.
Having already played international football for Morocco, El-Faouzi hopes to earn more playing time and establish himself in Ouahbi's squad. The midfielder's comments follow speculation about a possible call-up to Germany under Jurgen Klopp. However, he was not included in Klopp's first squad of 44 players.
El-Faouzi's decision to represent Morocco was made despite his eligibility to play for Germany. The midfielder reportedly attracted the attention of the German national team's coaching staff. However, he chose to continue representing Morocco, citing his positive experience with the Atlas Lions.
El-Faouzi's choice to represent Morocco reflects his commitment to the team and his desire to contribute to its future success. The midfielder's decision was influenced by his experience with the team and his enthusiasm for Morocco's progress. He will look to make a significant impact in the upcoming international fixtures.
Key points
- El-Faouzi chose to represent Morocco over Germany due to his positive experience with the Atlas Lions.
- Morocco's performances at the last two FIFA World Cups motivated El-Faouzi to continue representing the team.
- El-Faouzi could make his first competitive appearance for Morocco during the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
