Ayoub Oufkir is beginning an exciting new chapter in his career after receiving his first senior call-up to the Moroccan national team. The 20-year-old AZ Alkmaar winger has expressed his pride at joining the Atlas Lions, describing the opportunity to represent his country as an experience beyond words.
Speaking to the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) after joining the national team's training camp at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Maamora, the young attacker reflected on his decision to represent Morocco and his ambitions for the future.
For Oufkir, this first invitation represents more than a professional milestone. It is an opportunity to wear the shirt of his country, learn from established internationals and demonstrate the qualities that earned him the attention of the national coaching staff.
Mohamed Ouahbi Played a Key Role in His Decision
Oufkir revealed that his international journey began with a conversation with Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi.
The coach contacted the winger, and the two discussed the possibility of joining the Atlas Lions. According to Oufkir, the conversation left him with a positive impression, making his decision relatively straightforward.
“The coach called me, we spoke, and I had a good feeling. At the end of our conversation, I gave him a positive answer and told him that I wanted to come,” he explained.
His response reflects his enthusiasm for the opportunity and his desire to contribute to Moroccan football.
“The Feeling Is Indescribable”
Asked about what it means to represent Morocco, the AZ Alkmaar youngster did not hide his emotions.
“It's a beautiful thing to play for the national team, for your country. The feeling is indescribable,” Oufkir said.
The winger also spoke about the excitement of sharing the dressing room with some of Morocco's most established players.
For a young footballer receiving his first senior invitation, training alongside experienced internationals offers an invaluable opportunity to learn, improve and understand the demands of international football.
Oufkir is particularly eager to absorb their experience and use the training environment to accelerate his development.
Inspired by Morocco's World Cup Journey
The young winger also recalled following Morocco during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the emotions surrounding the national team's performances as particularly positive.
Watching the Atlas Lions compete on the biggest international stage further strengthened his connection with the national team and the ambition to become part of its journey.
Now, rather than watching from the outside, he has the opportunity to contribute himself.
His first call-up places him among the players hoping to help Morocco maintain its competitive momentum while preparing for future international challenges.
Goals, Assists and One Clear Ambition
Oufkir has also made his intentions clear regarding what he wants to bring to the national team.
The winger hopes to score goals, provide assists, support his teammates and work closely with the coaching staff. Above all, he wants his performances to make Moroccan supporters proud and happy.
His attacking qualities and willingness to contribute could make him an interesting option for Ouahbi as he evaluates the available talent within the squad.
However, the immediate priority will be adapting to the international environment, learning from his teammates and making the most of every opportunity.
A First Opportunity Against Niger
Oufkir's maiden senior call-up comes ahead of Morocco's two encounters against Niger in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The Atlas Lions will face Niger on November 13 at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca, before meeting the same opponents again on November 17 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
The double-header could provide the young winger with his first opportunity to make an impression in a Morocco shirt.
For Oufkir, the journey has only just begun. His excitement is clear, his ambitions are ambitious, and the opportunity to represent his country has finally arrived.
From watching the Atlas Lions on the world stage to joining their ranks, Ayoub Oufkir now has the chance to write his own chapter in Moroccan football.