Join on WhatsApp
Join on Telegram
Rabat – PSV Eindhoven’s Couhaib Driouech, who played a key role in Morocco’s victory at the U-23 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2023, has been ruled out of the Netherlands U21 national team due to eligibility concerns.
The 22-year-old-winger, who signed a five-year contract with PSV in July after moving from SBV Excelsior Rotterdam, was named to the Netherlands U21 squad by head coach Michael Reiziger for the November international break.
However, a recent announcement clarified that he will not be eligible to play for the Dutch team for now.
The Dutch Football Association (KNVB) addressed the situation in an official statement, explaining that Driouech “has participated in binding matches for Morocco’s U23 team,” meaning a formal transfer process is necessary for him to play for the Netherlands.
Read Also: Ilias Akhomach Out for Season Due to Injury Post First La Liga Goal
The KNVB noted that “since the Netherlands U21 only has friendly matches scheduled in November—not official games—it was assumed that such a procedure would not be necessary.” However, with this assumption now proven incorrect, Driouech has “decided not to make himself available at this time.”
Driouech, who has earned 11 international caps for Morocco, has gained attention in the Netherlands following his summer move to PSV.
His strong performances with the club have sparked speculation about his potential role in Dutch national teams. The eligibility issue reflects the complexities faced by players with dual nationality when seeking to switch national teams.
For now, Driouech remains focused on his club career at PSV, where he continues to impress the Eredivisie.
His decision to step back from this international window keeps the door open for a potential formal switch in the future, allowing him the possibility of representing the Netherlands in official competitions.
