Mohamed Ouahbi is considering a surprise return for Youssef En-Nesyri as Morocco prepare for their Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying double-header against Niger in November.
The Al-Ittihad striker has impressed the Morocco head coach in recent weeks, and his form could earn him a place in the squad for the third and fourth rounds of qualifying.
En-Nesyri has not featured for Morocco since Ouahbi took charge of the national team. His most recent appearance for the Atlas Lions came at the last Africa Cup of Nations.
Kooora understands that Ouahbi is giving serious thought to recalling the forward, while also wanting to continue leaving out Ayoub El Kaabi.
Since becoming head coach, Ouahbi has used a number of different options in attack, including El Kaabi, Sofiane Rahimi and Ismael Saibari. However, the manager has at times lacked a recognised centre-forward with the characteristics of a traditional number nine.
Ouahbi is keen to use a striker who can consistently occupy dangerous positions inside the penalty area, rather than relying on a false nine. That preference has increased the possibility of En-Nesyri returning to the squad.
The position of Rahimi is also unclear after the Al Ain player suffered an injury against Shabab Al Ahli Dubai 48 hours ago. His availability for the November camp has not yet been established.
En-Nesyri’s current form may strengthen his case for selection. He has played 13 matches for Al-Ittihad in all competitions this season, scoring seven goals and providing two assists.
The striker has also found the net in four of his last five appearances for Al-Ittihad in the Roshn Saudi League.
Morocco’s November fixtures against Niger will form the next stage of their campaign to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, with Ouahbi now weighing up whether En-Nesyri can provide the penalty-area presence he has been seeking.
