Ayoub Bouaddi Delays Decision on International Future Between Morocco and France; Rabat Officials Await
Ayoub Bouaddi, the 18-year-old midfielder for French club Lille, has postponed his final decision regarding which national team he will represent internationally, leaving the door open for competition between France and Morocco. Bouaddi, who is a regular starter for his club in the French league this season, is considered one of Europe's most prominent young talents. He has previously represented various French youth national teams, progressing up to the U21 squad.
The young player revealed his current stance in brief statements. Ayoub Bouaddi said, “No decision has been made yet, but we will see what happens.” He further emphasized, “Let’s wait, I haven’t chosen yet,” expressing his desire to take his time before determining his next international destination.
Meanwhile, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) continues its efforts to persuade him to represent the Atlas Lions, especially with the 2026 World Cup approaching, a tournament the player aspires to participate in. In this context, media reports indicated that the new coach Mohamed Wahbi, alongside FRMF President Fouzi Lekjaa, held a series of discussions with Bouaddi and his family in Lille, France.
Optimism prevails among Moroccan officials regarding the player's potential inclusion in the national team soon, particularly with two upcoming friendly matches scheduled for Morocco against Ecuador on March 27 and Paraguay on March 31 of this year.
On the other hand, the French Football Federation is monitoring developments concerning the player, who has progressed through their youth ranks. The Moroccan side, however, is banking on their national team project, which reached the World Cup semi-finals four years ago.
Intensive Moroccan efforts aim to secure the services of the Lille talent before the upcoming preparatory training camps, seeking to strengthen the team's midfield with a promising element who has proven his technical prowess on French pitches.
