Mamelodi Sundowns defender Abdelmounaim Boutouil has positioned himself within returning to the Morocco national team ahead of the AFCON finals in under six months' time.
Boutouil was signed by Sundowns at the beginning of last season on a transfer worth approximately R6.8 million.
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However, upon arrival at Sundowns injury and fitness issues curtailed his progress by delaying his debut for months which eventually proved worth the wait.
'AB' eventually turned into a key player in the later stages of the CAF Champions League last season and while his overall contribution was just 11 appearances there was no doubting his qualities.
"He has started the pre-season with the team so I hope this will earn him the confidence of the technical team to play him in more games in the league, cups, and Champions League," says Hicham Debhi, who works as Boutouil's representative.
"The plus is that he has zero injuries which is good for the player because he can now start the pre-season with the team from the word go which is important.
"Having done all of pre-season with team I hope this will help Sundowns win trophies especially the Champions League," says Debhi.
With prime fitness condition, the 25-year-old has positioned himself for AFCON finals consideration.
Boutouil was named in the CHAN team of the tournament where he earned six caps which he will now be keen to build on having settled at one club after a career that has taken him to FAR Rabat, KAC Kenitra, SC Chabab Mohammedia, Raja Casablanca, and Royale Union Saint Gilloise in the last five years.
"The coach (Walid Regragui) of the national team is monitoring the player because he knows him, and they need some players in Africa to be ready for the AFCON finals early next year.
"This is good for Boutouil because the position that he plays is crucial.
"So, once he is playing regularly and performing well, he will obviously be considered for the national team having been there before.
"AB has a big chance to be in the AFCON finals squad," says Debhi.
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