AZ winger Ayoub Oufkir has opted to represent Morocco internationally rather than the Netherlands. Morocco has overtaken the Netherlands in the FIFA rankings.
Oufkir accepts Morocco invitation
The 20-year-old AZ winger was selected for Jong Oranje's European Championship qualifiers but opted to accept an invitation from the Moroccan Football Federation. Oufkir won the Under-19 European Championship with the Netherlands.
Hernandez on the decision
Netherlands head coach Xavi Hernandez said at his Monday morning press conference: “I respect the players' choice. I think we did everything we could, but ultimately we have to respect that choice.”
Hernandez addresses his involvement
Addressing his personal involvement, Xavi Hernandez said: “I can be involved if it concerns a player we need. Other than that, I can only say that I respect the player's decision. He has chosen Morocco and we don't need to talk about this player anymore. We did everything we could and ultimately it is the player's decision.”
Netherlands reaction
According to GOAL, the Netherlands did everything it could to retain Oufkir but respected the player's decision. According to NOS, KNVB General Director Nigel de Jong was disappointed by Oufkir's departure. Xavi Hernandez is under contract until 2030.
