Morocco criticises DFB after Ebnoutalib's selection for Germany
In the Frankfurt stadium a small circle of journalists watched Younes Ebnoutalib accept the invitation from national team coach Jürgen Klopp – a move that immediately sparked discontent in Morocco and put the relationship with the DFB to the test. The decision, which had made him eligible for both nations, triggered a media echo.
Morocco reacts with sharp criticism
National team coach Mohamed Ouahbi immediately responded with a cutting remark towards the DFB. “The matter is settled. We are in 6th place in the world rankings and we continue,” he said, while Germany currently sits at rank twelve. The comment highlights the disappointment of the Moroccan federation.
According to information, Ebnoutalib's DFB‑nomination caused great anger in Morocco. The Moroccan federation would have liked to win the 23‑year‑old for its own selection and is not pleased with his decision for Germany.
Soufiane El‑Faouzi, 24, was again nominated by Morocco for the upcoming matches against Gabon, Lesotho and Ghana. He had already scored a 5‑0 result for the North Africans in a friendly against Burundi in May, but is not yet permanently tied to the Moroccan federation.
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Ebnoutalib was also on Morocco's radar. Ouahbi confirmed that he had already made contact with the Frankfurt club and explained that they had been watching him “since last season”, outlined the Morocco project over the phone – without any promises.
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The striker from Eintracht Frankfurt, Younes Ebnoutalib, could have been eligible for both countries, but chose the invitation from national team coach Jürgen Klopp. In doing so, he discarded the possibility of playing for Germany.
Jürgen Klopp expressed confidence in Ebnoutalib's qualities. “His cleverness when it comes to playing on the last line without being offside is extraordinary and great. He is a huge talent,” praised the new national coach.
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Alongside El‑Faouzi, four more Bundesliga professionals were called up to Morocco's 29‑man squad: Ismael Saibari, Zakaria El Ouahdi, Neil El Aynaoui and Bilal El Khannouss. The team is led by captain Achraf Hakimi.