Lille Midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi Opts to Represent Morocco Over France

This decision, which has been anticipated for some time by the French press, is a new blow for the French Football Federation. Despite attempts to retain him, the FFF failed to convince the player to stay.

Fouzi Lekjaa, the president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, welcomed this choice: "Ayoub is a pure product of Morocco, imbued with its culture. We are sure that he will be proud to represent his country and that Morocco will be proud of him".

The Moroccan official also highlighted the development strategy of Moroccan football, supported by King Mohammed VI, as a major asset in attracting dual nationals: "Our ambitious sports project allows us to more easily convince players of Moroccan origin to join the Atlas Lions".

He insisted on the transparency and simplicity of the selection process: "Any player who adheres to our project and has the required sporting qualities is welcome. We have established a clear and direct relationship with these young talents".

Finally, Fouzi Lekjaa recalled the long-term objectives of the Moroccan federation: "Our project extends beyond 2030, with solid foundations, optimal working conditions and an ambitious development plan".