Sofyan Amrabat says he was surprised by comments from Morocco manager Mohamed Ouahbi, but insists he has no personal dispute with the coach or his staff.
The Ajax midfielder had previously said he would not play for Morocco again while Ouahbi remained in charge of the national team.
Speaking to ESPN, Amrabat said Ouahbi’s remarks had caught him off guard, while rejecting any suggestion that his decision was linked to a lack of playing time at the World Cup.
“I was surprised. I didn’t expect it, it’s a little strange,” said the 30-year-old.
Ouahbi had addressed Amrabat’s position at a news conference, saying the player’s past contribution did not guarantee him a starting place or additional minutes.
“It is not easy to have a status like his and then accept that younger players are given more playing time,” Ouahbi said.
“There is no conflict between Amrabat and me, nor with the staff. In football, the past earns you respect, but it does not give you any privileges.”
Amrabat said he had always accepted whatever role he was given while representing Morocco and had never asked for more time on the pitch.
“I played for my country with enormous pride. It is the greatest honour there is,” he said.
“Whether it is 90 minutes, 20, 10, or none at all. Even during the World Cup, when I was not playing, I was always there for the lads. I trained relentlessly; you can ask anyone about that.
“I never demanded more playing time and I never will. In football, you have to fight for it and earn it.”
Amrabat said he now wanted to move on from the disagreement and focus on the national team rather than himself.
“It is not about me, but about the team,” he said. “He is the coach, so I wish him all the best. I wish the team all the best.
“I don’t like personal attacks. He knows the reasons. We have not had an argument, and I would rather leave it there.”