El Aynaoui's Impressive Form Ahead of World Cup 2026
Neil El Aynaoui, a pivotal figure in the Moroccan national football team during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), has demonstrated remarkable form as he prepares for the upcoming World Cup 2026. Following his participation in the tournament, which culminated in a hard-fought final against Senegal, El Aynaoui has faced limited playing time with AS Roma. However, recent performances indicate a positive shift for the 24-year-old midfielder. As the Moroccan team gears up for its opening match against Brazil on June 16, 2026, in the suburbs of New York, El Aynaoui's contributions will be vital in the subsequent matches against Scotland and Haiti.
In the latest international window, El Aynaoui showcased his scoring ability by netting two goals for the Lions of the Atlas, first in a draw against Ecuador (1-1) and then in a victory against Paraguay (2-1). His resurgence is a testament to his growing impact since AFCON 2025, where he first gained attention on the international stage. Additionally, he opened his goal-scoring account in Serie A last Saturday against Bologna, where he not only assisted Donyell Malen early in the match but also scored a crucial goal just before halftime, solidifying his role within the team.
Challenges and Expectations Following AFCON Disappointment
El Aynaoui has now been a starter for AS Roma for two consecutive matches, filling in for the unavailable Manu Koné. This marks a potential turning point for him as the season approaches its conclusion. Despite a challenging first year in Italy under coach Gian Piero Gasperini, where he primarily served as a backup and participated mainly in the Europa League, El Aynaoui's recent performances suggest he is finding his rhythm. After returning from AFCON, his initial appearances were limited and lacked impact, culminating in a frustrating experience where he was benched during a critical Europa League match against Bologna.
Gasperini acknowledged the challenges El Aynaoui faced, attributing his limited playing time to the emotional toll of the AFCON final, where Morocco suffered a heart-wrenching defeat to Senegal. The aftermath of this loss and the subsequent delay in formally recognizing Morocco as champions weighed heavily on the squad. Nevertheless, El Aynaoui's positive attitude and determination to regain his form indicate that he is on the right path. As the Moroccan team continues its preparations for the World Cup, the contributions of players like El Aynaoui will be crucial in their quest for success on the global stage.
As reported by fr.news.yahoo.com.
