Moroccan national team coach, Mohammed Waheb, has announced the inclusion of Ayoub Oufqir, a Dutch-trained player, in the team's roster for upcoming matches against Niger in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Oufqir, a 20-year-old forward, plays for Dutch club AZ Alkmaar and has previously represented the Netherlands in youth tournaments. His selection is seen as a coup for Moroccan football, which has been actively recruiting dual-nationality players in recent years.
Oufqir's decision to represent Morocco is a significant blow to the Dutch football federation, which had been trying to persuade him to play for the Netherlands. Dutch coach, Leeuwin Estheld, expressed disappointment at Oufqir's choice, saying that the player had been contacted and encouraged to join the Dutch national team, but ultimately decided to follow his heart and represent Morocco. Estheld acknowledged that the Dutch federation could have done more to convince Oufqir, suggesting that earlier communication and clearer plans might have swayed his decision.
Morocco has been successful in attracting dual-nationality players in recent years, with many opting to represent the Atlas Lions over the Netherlands. Players like Hakim Ziyech, Noussair Mazraoui, and Sofyan Amrabat have all chosen to play for Morocco, citing a strong sense of national pride and a desire to contribute to the team's success. The Moroccan national team has become a preferred destination for many talented players with dual nationality, offering a platform for them to showcase their skills and achieve international recognition.
Waheb explained that Oufqir was selected based on his impressive performances for AZ Alkmaar and his potential to strengthen the team's attacking lineup. The coach highlighted Oufqir's speed, agility, and ability to create scoring opportunities as key assets that will benefit the team. With Oufqir on board, Morocco will look to build on their recent successes, including a historic run to the 2022 World Cup semifinals.
Oufqir's career trajectory has been rapid and impressive, with the young forward progressing through the youth ranks of Dutch club Sparta Rotterdam before joining AZ Alkmaar in 2025. He has represented the Netherlands in various youth tournaments, including the 2025 European Under-19 Championship. Oufqir's decision to represent Morocco marks a significant turning point in his international career, which will be closely watched by fans and coaches alike.
The Moroccan national team's recruitment of Oufqir is part of a broader strategy to attract and develop talented players with dual nationality. The team's success in this area has been notable, with many players opting to represent Morocco over their country of birth or residence. As the team prepares for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, the inclusion of Oufqir and other young talents will be crucial in shaping the team's future prospects.
With Oufqir set to make his debut for Morocco in the upcoming matches against Niger, attention will focus on his performances and how he integrates with the team. The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers offer a significant opportunity for Oufqir to demonstrate his skills and make a positive impact on the team's campaign. As Morocco continues to build on its recent successes, the inclusion of talented young players like Oufqir will be essential in driving the team's progress and ambitions.
Key points
- Morocco adds Ayoub Oufqir to national team roster, dealing blow to Dutch football federation
- Oufqir's selection is part of Morocco's strategy to recruit dual-nationality players
- Morocco has successfully attracted several high-profile players with dual nationality in recent years
