Barcelona-Born Talent Ilias Akhomach Chooses Morocco Over Spain for International Soccer

This information has been confirmed by Santi Denia, coach of the Spanish under-21 national team, who revealed that Akhomach had communicated his decision to the sports management. Born in Barcelona to Moroccan parents, Akhomach had already represented Morocco in the youth categories, notably during the African Youth Games with the Moroccan under-16 team.

Akhomach, 19, is a pure product of La Masia, the famous training center of FC Barcelona. He played an important role in the first team under the direction of Xavi Hernández, but chose not to renew his contract with the Catalan club. By opting for Villarreal, he hopes to obtain a more central role and face less competition.

Akhomach’s decision to play for Morocco represents a blow for the Spanish under-21 national team, warns AS. Considered a key element by Denia, his absence could significantly affect the team’s strategies for the 2025 Euro qualifications in Slovakia, where Spain will face Hungary and Belgium.