As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup draws nearer, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation is ramping up its efforts to attract players of Moroccan descent residing in various European countries. This strategic initiative aims to strengthen the roster of the Atlas Lions, particularly at a time when Moroccan football is experiencing a significant resurgence. In a remarkable demonstration of this initiative's success, six promising young talents have already committed to donning the Moroccan colors, showcasing the federation's effective strategy and the increasing appeal of the national team.
With only a few months left before the prestigious tournament, the federation is focusing its recruitment campaign on players of Moroccan heritage, particularly from nations such as Spain, France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium. This endeavor is fueled by the recent achievements of Moroccan football, which have captured the attention and admiration of the footballing world.
In a swift two-week period, six players have made the decision to represent Morocco, as reported through FIFA’s "Change of Football Association" platform. Notably, among these players is Rayane Bounida, a talented midfielder from Ajax Amsterdam, who was born in 2006 and chose to represent Morocco over Belgium. Similarly, Saif Eddien Lazar, born in the same year and currently playing for Genk, has opted for Morocco. Other notable commitments include Benjamin Khaderi from PSV Eindhoven (born in 2007), Ayoub Ouarghi from Feyenoord (2008), Oualid Agougil from Utrecht (2005), and Sami Bouhoudane, also from PSV Eindhoven (2008), all of whom have decided to represent Morocco, turning down the Netherlands.
Head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has already called up Rayane Bounida for the national team’s preparatory camp ahead of friendly matches against Ecuador on March 27 in Madrid and Paraguay on March 31 in Lens, France. The Belgian Football Association has expressed disappointment over Bounida's choice but has publicly stated that it respects his decision. Reports from local media indicate that multiple attempts were made to sway him, including conversations with the player and his representatives.
Previously, in December, goalkeeper Aymean el Hani chose to align himself with Morocco’s youth teams instead of the Netherlands, and Mounir Chouiar, who possesses Mauritanian and French nationalities, also opted for Morocco. Additionally, in October, Moroccan-Dutch player Mohamed Ihattaren made the switch to represent Morocco rather than the Netherlands.
The federation continues to pursue other potential recruits, including Real Madrid talents Thiago Pitarch and Rachad Fettal, both of whom previously played for Morocco’s U20 team before opting for Spain. Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi is also among the prospects being targeted to join the national squad.
As reported by en.yabiladi.com.
