Does Neil El Aynaoui snub Morocco? Regragui sets the record straight

"In truth, exceptional players always attract my attention and Neil El Aynaoui is one of them. He is one of the players of the future, but you have noticed that he was not called up with the Olympic national team," said Walid Regragui on Monday, during the pre-match press conference against Mauritania.

The 22-year-old player, who is in good form at RC Lens this season, "gave priority to his club," explained the Moroccan technician. "He was supposed to be in the group during the CAN, but we left him to grow at his request to play and win his place. During the March training camp, he wanted a little time, and as I always say, we have to make choices and be present. The problem today comes from the player and not from us, and if there is a problem, you have to ask him the question."

For the Moroccan coach, the last word goes to Neil El Aynaoui. "In the end, he remains a player who interests us and he must make a decision, and if he does not, we will make it in his place, we will not wait long," warned Regragui.