Abdellah Ouazane's Commitment to Morocco
At just 17 years old, Abdellah Ouazane has made a significant decision regarding his international football career by confirming his intention to represent Morocco. The young midfielder, who has been making waves at Ajax, showcased his talent by providing two assists in a recent match against FC Sion, drawing the attention of Moroccan football officials, including coach Mohamed Ouahbi. With this performance, Ouazane has taken considerable steps toward fulfilling his dream of joining the national team, known as the Lions of the Atlas.
The Netherlands appears to have lost its chance to secure Ouazane's allegiance. Born and raised in Amsterdam, this promising Ajax player publicly reiterated his choice to play for Morocco after a thrilling victory where Ajax triumphed 5-3, securing a place in the league with an aggregate score of 9-5. "I have made my choice," he stated in an interview with Ziggo Sport. Ouazane, who discussed this pivotal decision with his parents, expressed his aspiration to wear the Moroccan jersey, emphasizing, "I started with the Moroccan U15 team, and now I aim to reach the senior squad. I believe that this goal is coming closer and closer to reality," as reported by Voetbal International.
Future Prospects with the Lions of the Atlas
Ouazane's declaration comes amidst calls for the Dutch Football Association to intervene, as his exceptional performance has caught the eye of former international Rafael van der Vaart, who lauded him as an "exceptional" talent. Van der Vaart, who has known Ouazane since his youth, urged the Dutch federation to take action, suggesting that they send someone like Xavi to engage with him, although he himself seems to have lost hope, acknowledging, "It seems he has already made his choice, and that is perfectly normal." When asked about any potential overtures from the Dutch national coach, Ouazane hinted that he would listen to proposals, but reiterated that his primary goal remains to play for Morocco.
Having already participated in three matches with the Netherlands U15 team, Ouazane's international journey has been largely linked to Moroccan selections. Mohamed Ouahbi, the Moroccan coach, was present at the Johan Cruijff Arena to observe the young talent, which Ouazane noted touched him deeply. Following the match, the Moroccan coaching staff reportedly met with Ouazane at a restaurant in Amsterdam, where they discussed the role envisioned for him within the national team and the steps necessary for his integration.
Ouazane has accumulated a wealth of experience with Morocco's youth categories, having played approximately thirty matches. His standout performance at the U17 Africa Cup of Nations, where he was named the best player, and his subsequent appearances at the U17 World Cup have marked him as a significant prospect for the future. Currently contracted with Ajax until June 2028, after a failed transfer to Real Madrid, he remains administratively linked to Jong Ajax, yet his recent performances have brought him closer to securing a permanent spot in the first team, along with a potential invitation to join the Lions of the Atlas.
As reported by bladi.net.
