The Atlas Lions of Morocco have been handed a major boost ahead of the 2026 World Cup after highly-rated Lille midfield star Ayyoub Bouaddi opted to feature for them ahead of France.
Bouaddi was born to Moroccan parents and has now been cleared by FIFA to play for the North Africans.
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation announced the FIFA approval for a change of international allegiance by the player.
The 18-year-old midfielder is regarded as one of the brightest young players in Ligue 1 after he established himself as a starter over the last three seasons.
Morocco have recently convinced Fulham defender Issa Diop, who was born in France to a Moroccan mother, as well as Ajax youngster Rayane Bounida, a former Belgium U19 captain, to play for them.
They are drawn in a first round World Cup Group C alongside Brazil, Haiti and Scotland.
This is huge news for Morocco! Bouaddi choosing them over France, especially with the 2026 World Cup coming up, is a massive statement of intent. It makes you wonder how many other young talents are weighing these national team choices right now; I’m excited to see him on the pitch for the Atlas Lions.