RC Lens Midfielder Neil El Aynaoui Delays Decision on Morocco National Team Commitment

While everything seemed to indicate his presence in Regragui’s group to face Angola and Mauritania, the 24-year-old player has made a U-turn. Appearing only once with the Moroccan Olympic team last September, El Aynaoui wishes to take a "reflection period" before definitely committing to the Atlas Lions.

This turnaround has caused an outcry on social media in recent days, where some Internet users criticize the Lensois’ hesitation and compare him unfavorably to his father, Younès El Aynaoui, a renowned former tennis player and fervent patriot.

Neil El Aynaoui had already turned down the advances of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) before the 2023 CAN, preferring to focus on his club.

Also eligible for France, the Franco-Moroccan does not close the door to the Moroccan selection.