Morocco consider Youssef En-Nesyri return for November Niger qualifiers

Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi is considering recalling Youssef En-Nesyri for the November international camp as he looks to strengthen his attacking options for the Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifiers against Niger.

The two sides will meet in the third and fourth rounds of qualifying, with Ouahbi reportedly keen to include the Al-Ittihad striker despite his continued preference for leaving Ayoub El Kaabi out of the squad.

Since taking charge of Morocco, Ouahbi has used several players in the central striking role, including El Kaabi, Sofiane Rahimi and Ismael Saibari. However, the coach has at times lacked a conventional number nine capable of leading the attack and providing a consistent presence in the penalty area.

Kooora understands that En-Nesyri has impressed Ouahbi in recent weeks, prompting the manager to consider bringing him back into the national team for the November camp. The coach is said to be looking for a recognised centre-forward rather than relying on a false nine.

The situation surrounding Rahimi is also unclear. The Al Ain forward suffered an injury against Shabab Al Ahli Dubai 48 hours ago, leaving doubts over whether he will be available for the upcoming international fixtures.

En-Nesyri has not represented Morocco since Ouahbi became head coach. His most recent appearance for the Atlas Lions came at the last Africa Cup of Nations.

The striker has made 13 appearances for Al-Ittihad in all competitions this season, scoring seven goals and providing two assists. He has also found the net in four of his past five appearances for the club in the Roshn Saudi League.

Morocco’s November camp will therefore provide Ouahbi with a decision to make over the composition of his attack, particularly as he weighs a possible return for En-Nesyri alongside the fitness of Rahimi and his intention to continue excluding El Kaabi.