AZ coach urges earlier KNVB action after Oufkir chooses Morocco

AZ forward Ayoub Oufkir has chosen to represent Morocco despite previously playing throughout the Netherlands’ youth set-up and recently starting for Jong Oranje. Morocco immediately selected him for two forthcoming internationals against Niger, according to NU.nl.

Oufkir is the second Netherlands-born prospect in a short period to opt for Morocco. Ajax talent Abdellah Ouazane made the same decision in August, although Oufkir’s case differs because he had consistently represented Dutch national youth teams. His departure also comes before Jong Oranje’s play-offs for a place at next year’s European Championship.

AZ coach Leeroy Echteld said he understood the forward’s decision and had encouraged him to follow his own instincts. Speaking at a press conference before AZ’s Europa League meeting with Juventus, Echteld nevertheless argued that the KNVB should engage eligible players earlier and clearly explain the pathway it sees for them. “You want to retain good players for Dutch football,” he told NU.nl.

Echteld, who served as a Jong Oranje assistant until the beginning of this year, acknowledged that such decisions ultimately depend on a player’s personal feelings. However, he believes earlier conversations could prevent the federation from waiting until a prospect is receiving pressure from several sides. Oufkir had been a starter for the Netherlands Under-21s during their latest international fixtures, making his final choice a notable setback for the team.