Morocco national team coach Mohamed Wahbi has addressed recent controversies surrounding Sofyan Amrabat and Abdessamad Ezzalzouli. He stated that the Moroccan midfielder's contributions to the national team are worthy of respect and appreciation, but this will not grant him privilege in the selection process. He also emphasized that despite the controversy caused by a jersey supporting the residents of Ceuta, he still trusts the Real Betis winger.

On Thursday, Wahbi announced the squad for the first two rounds of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Gabon and Lesotho, as well as a friendly match against Ghana.

At a press conference held at the Mohammed VI Football Academy, Wahbi responded to criticism from former international Sofyan Amrabat, who recently announced the end of his international career.

Last week, Amrabat's sudden announcement that he would temporarily end his national team career came as a shock.

The Fiorentina midfielder also posted a lengthy statement on his official Instagram account, saying that he would not play for Morocco as long as Wahbi remained coach.

Wahbi responded by saying that, according to the Moroccan website "Hesport," Amrabat has contributed significantly to the Moroccan national team in recent years, and his achievements should not be forgotten. He also denied any disagreement or conflict between himself and Amrabat or members of the Moroccan coaching staff.

He explained that past contributions deserve respect and appreciation, but they will not grant players privileges within the national team. He also pointed out that a player's current form and playing time at club level are criteria considered during selection.

Wahbi added that Amrabat's main issue lies in his recent lack of playing time at his club. He said: "The player's problem is playing time." He emphasized that competitive form and a consistent rhythm of play are important before being called up to the national team.

Regarding the controversy caused by Abde wearing a jersey supporting residents of Ceuta, Wahbi stressed that no one can question the player's love for Morocco or his commitment to the national team.

The Moroccan coach stated that Ezzalzouli had only recently returned to action after a long absence and was eager to play. According to him, this is also why the player did not pay special attention to the words on the jersey and their meaning.

Wahbi emphasized the need to support Ezzalzouli and help him gradually regain his form, while also calling for fans not to mix sports issues with politics.

He stated that the current stage requires helping players regain their best form, especially those who are experiencing difficulties or have been away from competition for an extended period.

Last Monday, Villarreal and Real Betis took to the pitch at the Estadio de la Cerámica wearing jerseys with the slogan "We are all Ceutans" to express solidarity with residents of Ceuta.

After Ezzalzouli appeared in this jersey, the Moroccan-born player, who grew up in Elche, Spain, faced massive criticism, abuse, and threats from Moroccan fans on social media. He subsequently deleted his Instagram post in an attempt to quell the backlash.

Regarding player transfers during the last summer window, Wahbi said that some players had consulted him about their moves. He explained that he tried to give advice that would benefit both the players personally and the national team.

The Moroccan coach also noted that advisors around players look out for their interests.

The Moroccan national team will face Gabon at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Friday, September 25, and then travel to Bloemfontein, South Africa, the following Tuesday to play Lesotho.

Morocco will also play a friendly match against Ghana in Tangier on October 4.

AF's PC site is now live! Browse full news, comments, match details and stats on your computer. Visit: www.allfootballapp.com