The Atlas Lions: Issa Diop’s spectacular "about-face" before the 2026 World Cup

The former Toulouse player has ultimately opted for the Atlas Lions. The footballer born in 1997, European Under-19 champion with the young French team in 2016, has listened to his heart for the country of origin of his mother, abandoning his French and Senegalese options.

This decision contrasts sharply with the defender’s previous statements. In 2019, he publicly stated: "To go to another national team because I wasn’t in the French team, that would be a bit hypocritical," promising never to change his sporting allegiance.

A year earlier, he had already proclaimed his unconditional love for the Blues in an indirect message to Didier Deschamps. He then swore that he would not defend the colors of any other nation, even without a call-up to the senior team. The evolution of his career and the opportunity to play in a major international tournament have apparently changed his thinking.

From a sporting perspective, the arrival of this experienced player from the Premier League is a real asset. He comes to strengthen a Moroccan defensive sector currently weakened by the physical uncertainties surrounding Nayef Aguerd, Adam Masina and Jawad El Yamiq.