Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has moved to put an end to the controversy surrounding Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, insisting that the situation involving the winger should not be
interpreted as a question of his loyalty to the Atlas Lions.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, September 17, Ouahbi was asked about the recent situation surrounding Ezzalzouli and rejected suggestions that it could cast doubt on the player's patriotism.
“Ezzalzouli’s situation involved only a misunderstanding. No one can question his patriotism,” Ouahbi said.
Ouahbi Stands Behind Ezzalzouli
The Morocco coach made clear that he does not believe the incident should overshadow Ezzalzouli's relationship with the national team.
The winger remains an important part of Morocco's plans, having established himself as one of the team's attacking options.
For Ouahbi, the episode is something that can be handled internally through communication rather than allowing speculation to define the situation.
A Matter of Misunderstanding
The controversy emerged following a situation involving a Ceuta-related T-shirt, which generated discussion around the Moroccan international.
However, Ouahbi insisted that the incident was simply a misunderstanding and did not reflect Ezzalzouli's feelings toward Morocco.
The coach also underlined the importance of maintaining trust between the national team staff and its players, particularly when unexpected situations attract attention outside the dressing room.
Communication Over Speculation
Ouahbi stressed that dialogue remains the most effective way to resolve situations of this nature.
Rather than allowing outside speculation to create unnecessary tension, the coach believes that communication between the player and the national team can provide clarity and prevent a misunderstanding from becoming a larger controversy.
His comments also send a clear message that Ezzalzouli continues to be trusted within the Morocco setup.
Ezzalzouli Remains Part of the Plans
Despite the recent attention surrounding the winger, Ezzalzouli remains included in Morocco's squad for the upcoming AFCON 2027 qualifiers.
The Atlas Lions will begin their campaign against Gabon on September 25, with the match taking place in Morocco.
Four days later, on September 29, Ouahbi's side will travel to South Africa to face Lesotho. Ezzalzouli is therefore set to remain available as Morocco begins its next competitive chapter.
Focus Turns Back to the Pitch
With the coach publicly clarifying his position, the focus can now return to football.
For Ezzalzouli, the immediate task is to prepare for the upcoming international matches and continue contributing to the Atlas Lions on the pitch.
Ouahbi's comments underline that the winger's place within the national team remains clear, while the controversy is being treated as a misunderstanding rather than something that should define the player.
For Morocco and Ezzalzouli, the focus now shifts back to the upcoming qualifiers and the challenges waiting on the pitch.