Younes Ebnoutalib has appeared to indicate that Germany is his preferred international destination, just a day before Morocco manager Mohamed Ouahbi is due to announce his squad.
The Eintracht Frankfurt striker has been strongly linked by the German media with a place in Jurgen Klopp’s Germany squad. Asked by supporters about the prospect, however, the 23-year-old offered only brief answers in a video shared on X by FRMF Xtra.
Ebnoutalib, one of the early-season standouts for Eintracht Frankfurt with four goals and two assists in four matches, looked slightly uncomfortable as he responded to questions about the national team.
When a supporter congratulated him on his reported call-up by the four-time world champions, Ebnoutalib simply replied: “Thank you.”
Asked what excited him most about joining the Mannschaft, he answered: “Everything.”
The short exchange has been interpreted as a further indication that Ebnoutalib is leaning towards Germany, despite continuing to be considered for Morocco’s squad.
Morocco are due to play Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifiers against Gabon and Lesotho on 25 and 29 September. The Atlas Lions could also play one or two friendlies in early October.
The Morocco squad will be announced on Thursday, a few hours after Germany’s selection is expected to be revealed. Some Morocco supporters are still hoping Ebnoutalib will choose to represent the Atlas Lions.
According to FRMF Xtra, Ebnoutalib did speak to Ouahbi during the manager’s European tour several weeks ago, contradicting reports that the pair had not been in contact.
The forward has previously shown signs of an attachment to Morocco. In early February, he posted a photograph of his boots bearing the Moroccan flag, a gesture viewed as a clear reference to the Atlas Lions.
In July, he also expressed his disappointment at not being selected for the 2026 World Cup.
Ebnoutalib represented Morocco at under-15 level before becoming a player wanted by both national teams. His latest comments do not amount to a formal declaration, but his reserved reaction to the Germany questions has increased the expectation that he may soon commit to the country of his birth or football development.
The timing leaves Morocco with little room for manoeuvre before Ouahbi names his squad, while Germany’s announcement could provide the clearest indication yet of Ebnoutalib’s international future.