Ayoub Oufkir’s first Morocco call-up has prompted debate after the 20-year-old AZ Alkmaar winger was selected for the match against Niger.

Oufkir has scored two goals in 10 Eredivisie appearances this season, making a promising start without yet becoming an undisputed starter for his club. His form has nevertheless persuaded Morocco manager Mohamed Ouahbi to include him in the squad.

The decision has surprised some supporters, with one questioning on social media: “Ayoub Oufkir, apart from security, I cannot see why he deserves to be called up.”

The comment reflects the wider uncertainty over the selection. Some observers believe Ouahbi is attempting to secure Oufkir’s international future before the Netherlands can compete for his allegiance, given that the player could also represent that country.

“Oufkir is simply the Ebnoutalib situation happening again in the meantime... Look no further,” another supporter wrote, referring to the young striker who was taken by Jurgen Klopp and Germany ahead of Morocco.

The implication is that Morocco want to avoid a similar situation involving Xavi and the Oranje in the coming months, should Oufkir continue to progress.

There are sporting grounds for questioning the decision. Oufkir has not yet fully established himself in the Eredivisie and faces competition for a place, including from Couhaib Driouech.

However, Morocco’s attacking options have been affected by several absences. Ilias Akhomach is injured, while Rayane Bounida, Chemsedine Talbi and Osame Sahraoui have had limited playing time. Amine Harit appears to be clearly outside the manager’s plans, as does Hakim Ziyech, despite the latter continuing to play in Brazil.

Ouahbi, speaking at a news conference, offered a strong defence of his new selection.

“Oufkir is a very, very dynamic player, very quick, very technical, who turns very, very quickly. He can beat opponents and he also has a very good cross,” the manager said.

He also highlighted the winger’s versatility and the tactical options he could provide. “The fact that he can play on the left could allow Youssef [En-Nesyri] to score headers, or Zabiri,” Ouahbi added with a smile, pointing to Oufkir’s delivery from wide areas.

The manager believes several of his younger players, including Oufkir, could take another step forward over the next few months and become credible options for the next Africa Cup of Nations.

Oufkir possesses many of the qualities Ouahbi is seeking: explosiveness, comfort in tight spaces, the ability to eliminate opponents and intelligent movement. His profile also bears some resemblance to that of Gessime Yassine, another young talent highly regarded by the Morocco manager.

The Niger fixture will therefore provide an early indication of whether this is the beginning of Oufkir’s sustained involvement with the Lions of the Atlas or simply an initial introduction to the squad.