Morocco has emerged victorious in the international tug-of-war for highly-rated Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, who was born in France to Moroccan parents. FIFA has approved his switch of allegiance, providing the Atlas Lions with a significant boost just weeks before the World Cup in North America.
FIFA Approval Granted
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation announced on Friday that it had received a decision from FIFA's Players' Status Chamber approving its request to change the sporting nationality of Bouaddi. This makes him immediately eligible to represent Morocco in all international competitions.
Bouaddi's Background
Bouaddi, 18, had previously represented France at youth level, most recently captaining the under-21 side in a European Championship qualifier against Luxembourg. However, he has opted to commit his senior international future to Morocco.
The midfielder is regarded as one of Ligue 1's brightest young talents, having established himself as a regular in Lille's lineup in recent seasons. He has made more than 90 appearances for the club across all competitions over three campaigns. Notably, he was the youngest player to feature in a European club competition match, aged 16 years and three days.
Strengthening the Squad
Morocco has built a strong track record of recruiting dual-nationality players to strengthen their squad. Recently, they convinced Fulham defender Issa Diop, born in France to a Moroccan mother, to commit to the North African nation. Similarly, Ajax Amsterdam's Rayane Bounida, a former Belgium under-19 captain, has also joined the Moroccan cause.
World Cup Prospects
The World Cup will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. Morocco, the first African and Arab country to reach a World Cup semifinal, are drawn in Group C alongside Brazil, Haiti, and Scotland. The addition of Bouaddi is expected to bolster their midfield options as they aim to replicate their historic run.
