Ayyoub Bouaddi chooses Morocco over France World Cup
Great hope from Lille at 18 years old, Ayyoub Bouaddi is set to represent Morocco at the next World Cup. The midfielder preferred the Lions of the Atlas to the Blues, even rejecting an attempt by Zinédine Zidane to keep him.
The French Federation played a trump card to try to retain the native of Senlis. Expected to lead the Tricolores after the North American competition, Zinédine Zidane personally contacted the player before his final decision, reveals L’Équipe. This high-level approach illustrates the paramount importance given to this raw talent, placed alongside Lamine Yamal at the top of the 2007 generation.
On Bladi.net : Ayyoub Bouaddi Chooses Morocco Over France World Cup Dreams
The prestige of the former number 10 did not, however, sway the position of the U-21 international. After several months of solitary reflection, he favored the country of both his parents, respecting his wish expressed in April for a purely spontaneous and natural approach.
This choice validates the relevance of Morocco’s policy towards dual nationals. Following the arrivals of Brahim Diaz and Ibrahim Rabbaj, the national team relies on its status as semi-finalist in the last World Cup to attract the best prospects. Coach Mohamed Ouahbi will likely integrate him into his future squad.
On Bladi.net : Morocco or France? The prodigy Ayyoub Bouaddi breaks the silence and sets his conditions
With 95 club appearances under his belt, including 25 played on the European stage, the Lille midfielder brings solid sporting guarantees. His benchmark match against Real Madrid in autumn 2024 had definitively marked his step up to the highest level.
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