FIFA Approves Belgian-Born Midfielder’s Switch to Morocco National Team

Born to Moroccan parents, Anouar Aït El Hadj has expressed his desire to play for the Moroccan national team. This choice is reportedly linked to the project presented by the Moroccan selection and his wish to participate in future competitions under the colors of the Atlas Lions, including the Africa Cup of Nations scheduled in Morocco (December 2025 - January 2026) and the 2026 World Cup (United States, Canada, Mexico).

This decision is seen as a new setback for the Belgian Football Federation. It has seen other players trained in Belgium choose to represent Morocco in recent months, a trend that coincides with Morocco’s performance at the 2022 World Cup, where the team reached the semi-finals.

Similarly, information circulating on some media and social networks, suggesting that Aït El Hadj would not be well received in the team coached by Walid Regragui due to a supposed previous refusal on his part, is completely false.

According to sources within the Moroccan national technical direction, the selection remains open to all eligible Moroccan talents, such as Anouar Aït El Hadj and many others. However, it is specified that integration depends on the technical and physical skills of the players, necessary to obtain a place in the team.

However, choosing the Moroccan selection does not necessarily mean a starting position. Aït El Hadj will have the opportunity to prove himself, but he will have to work to convince coach Walid Regragui of his level. Competition for a starting place in the Moroccan selection is currently high due to the large number of competitive players.

Playing as a midfielder, Anouar Aït El Hadj has participated in 33 matches for Saint-Gilloise this season (all competitions combined), scoring 5 goals and providing 4 assists.