Ayyoub Bouaddi: the suspense remains complete, France fears losing its prodigy

The management of dual-national talents is fully occupying Gérald Baticle during this new gathering. The coach of the Bleuets is following the case of the Lille player Ayyoub Bouaddi with particular attention. Born in Senlis in the Oise, this 18-year-old midfielder now finds himself torn between the French national team and the Atlas Lions. The French coach does not hide his ambition to keep him: "I hope with all my heart that he will remain in blue because I love the player and I want to see him wear the blue jersey in the future".

On Bladi.net: Ayyoub Bouaddi torn between France and Morocco

For now, the young player is maintaining the suspense. Preferring dialogue, Gérald Baticle assures that he "will make his choice when he feels like it". This international window has also been marked by other complexities related to players with dual nationality. Administrative delays have in particular affected the Lens club for the cases of Sidiki and Ismaëlo Ganiou, whose first appearance in the French jersey is, according to the coach, only "postponed".

On Bladi.net: Ayyoub Bouaddi says "yes" to Morocco and turns his back on France

Less than three months before the 2026 World Cup, this indecision has also elicited a reaction from Didier Deschamps. The boss of the French A team refuses to influence the player or modify his working method to seduce him. While acknowledging that he is monitoring his performances, he insists on the density in his position, having already called up six midfielders while keeping other profiles in reserve: "Obviously, we are following his performances, but there is very strong competition". He thus leaves the Lille player the "freedom to choose" before finalizing his definitive lists in May.