El Karouani on Morocco Exclusion: "I Felt Disappointed, But I'll Get Over It Quickly; Situation Might Be Different With Another Coach"

Souffian El Karouani, the Dutch FC Utrecht player, believes he deserved a place in the Moroccan national team's final squad for the Africa Cup of Nations, stating he will quickly overcome his disappointment.

Speaking to DAZN regarding his exclusion from the squad, El Karouani said: "I think I should have been on the list, but in the end, it's the coach's decision. I just keep working and focusing on what I do. It's simple."

When asked if there had been any communication with national coach Walid Regragui to understand the reason for his exclusion, El Karouani clarified: "I wasn't on the list last time either, and I didn't receive any explanation. There was no communication on this matter. This is the reality, I can't change it, and it's the coach's decision."

Regarding whether Anas Salah-Eddine had taken his spot, El Karouani stated: "I don't like to use the word 'victim,' but yes, he came in and I went out. These are the coach's choices. The situation might be different with another coach."

He continued: "What I show on the field explains everything. I felt disappointed, but in my own way. I get over it quickly, put it aside, and move forward. As you saw today, I didn't appear to be frustrated."

When asked if his exclusion was difficult, the Utrecht player replied: "No, for me it's not difficult. I just press the forward button and continue on my way. Very simple. That's life."