El Aynaoui's father sparks Morocco controversy over son's Africa Cup win
Squad News·25 June 2026·11d ago

El Aynaoui's father sparks Morocco controversy over son's Africa Cup win

Source: Forza Roma

Younes El Aynaoui, father of AS Roma midfielder Neil El Aynaoui, has ignited debate in Morocco with comments about his son's relationship to the nation's Africa Cup of Nations title. Speaking to RMC Sport, the father stated: "My son does not feel like an Africa Cup champion." The remark references Morocco's January final against Senegal, which the team lost on the pitch but won through legal appeal, securing the trophy via court decision. The comments have divided Moroccan supporters, with many criticizing the father for remarks deemed inappropriate during a critical World Cup campaign.

El Aynaoui, a Roma midfielder, has delivered three consecutive high-level performances at the tournament and has attracted interest from Barcelona. However, his father's public statements have overshadowed his on-field success. The second wave of controversy emerged from further remarks about Neil's national team choice. Born in Nancy and developed in France, El Aynaoui reportedly considered representing France before selecting Morocco. His father explained: "He considered the French national team a squad of the highest level, perhaps he doubted he could be part of it." He added that manager Walid Regragui's efforts over the years led to his eventual Morocco call-up, though France never formally invited him.

The father's intervention has fueled social media debate at a time when Morocco requires unity during the World Cup. El Aynaoui continues to perform well on the pitch but now faces external distractions from his family's public commentary.

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Testo Originale / Source Text

A scatenare la furia dei tifosi è stata anche una frase sulla scelta della Nazionale da rappresentare Redazione 25 giugno - 14:14 Gasp non lascia e raddoppia: Ndicka resta, occhi su Ostigard El Aynaoui è una delle stelle indiscusse di questo Mondiale. Il centrocampista giallorosso si sta prendendo…

Read the full article in Italian at Forza Roma.

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