Souffian El Karouani has not been called up to the Moroccan national team for the upcoming international break. The 25-year-old defender started on Wednesday night for the first time in a while.
National coach Mohamed Ouahbi is closely monitoring the performances of the Benfica player.
“Regarding El Karouani, you noticed the assist he made yesterday, but I watched the match and I did not evaluate him solely on that assist,” Ouahbi said at a press conference.
In his Europa League match against AC Milan this week, he played a key role with an assist. “He is a player we have been watching since last season; he has excellent qualities and plays for a great club. He almost joined our ranks,” the coach added.
“The door is open to everyone, and he just needs to keep putting in the effort. I believe he will get his chance.”
Ajax player Adellah Ouazane has been selected by coach Mohamed Ouahbi for the upcoming international break.
El Karouani signed with Al Qadsiah from FC Utrecht last summer. However, due to regulations, he could not expect significant playing time in Saudi Arabia, as Saudi clubs are limited to registering eight foreign players over the age of 23. He was therefore loaned to Benfica.
