Ayoub Oufkir sends clear message to the KNVB immediately after first Morocco call-up

Ayoub Oufkir has committed his international future to Morocco, according to the Algemeen Dagblad, among others. He has told the KNVB of his decision, dealing the Dutch association a significant blow.

During the last international break, Oufkir started for the Netherlands Under-21s. They must qualify for the European Championship through the play-offs later this month, but Michael Reiziger can no longer call on him.

The AZ forward delivered his final decision to the KNVB on Wednesday afternoon, according to the AD.

At the press conference ahead of the Europa League match against Juventus, AZ coach Leeroy Echteld also confirmed his player's decision. "We've spoken about it together. Initially, I'll always push him towards the Netherlands, because I come from here, but it's his choice. Ayoub is going to Morocco."

Oufkir's call-up to the Morocco national team emerged earlier on Wednesday. The 20-year-old forward is in coach Mohamed Ouahbi's squad for the first time.

On Friday 13 November, Morocco host Niger in Casablanca. The two countries meet again on Tuesday 17 November, this time in Rabat. The matches are part of the third and fourth rounds of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Ouahbi's side begin the two-match series top of Group A with six points from two games. The matches give Oufkir the chance to make his senior Morocco debut.