Morocco’s El Maleh Seeks National Team Return Ahead of Brazil, Peru Friendlies

Youssef El Maleh, a Lecce player, had refused a call-up to the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations with the Moroccan team under former coach Vahid Halilhodzic. He had already been called up but had experienced his role as a substitute in several matches.

The player is finally keeping a low profile and apologizing to the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) for declining their offer in 2021 and has stated that he is ready to join the national team. Although he had wanted to play for Morocco at the 2022 World Cup, coach Walid Regragui excluded him from the selection, as he had not yet made a clear decision regarding his commitment to the team.