Traveller heard Oufkir's choice for Morocco via media: 'We had his word'

Reiziger learned of Oufkir's switch to Morocco through media reports rather than direct communication, five to seven days after the player had committed to Netherlands youth football.

Ayoub Oufkir's decision to represent Morocco instead of the Netherlands has sparked frustration at the Dutch FA, particularly over the lack of direct communication. Jong Oranje coach Michael Reiziger discovered the news via media reports that Oufkir, an AZ winger, had been called up for Morocco, only learning the details from the player himself later that evening.

Reiziger expressed disappointment at the timing and method: "It's very bitter that you only hear about it when Morocco announces the squad. Of course I respect his decision, but it's a shame he made it known so late." The coach revealed that just five to seven days earlier, Oufkir had given his word in conversations that he would join Jong Oranje for the European Championship qualifying play-offs against Denmark.

Teammate Givairo Read, Feyenoord's right-back and Jong Oranje captain, also learned of the switch through Instagram and immediately called Oufkir. Read, who won the U19 European Championship with Oufkir last year, said he respects the decision but regrets losing his partner on the right flank.

Reiziger believes the KNVB did enough to retain Oufkir, stating: "We've done a lot. Not just now, but before as well. That wasn't the issue."