Monaco’s Ben Seghir Chooses Morocco Over France for International Career

"Many say I chose Morocco too early, but for me there is no perfect timing. When you want something, you have to go for it, you have to charge ahead. And you shouldn’t pay attention to what’s being said about you. I wanted to play for Morocco, so why wait to play with the France A team when my wish is to play for Morocco?" he said in a long interview with the daily le Onze Mondial.

Eliesse did not make this decision alone. Walid Regragui helped him take the step. "Yes, my choice comes quite early in my career, I’m proud of it, and above all, it’s because the coach, Walid Regragui, called me and gave me great confidence," affirms the young striker. The historic run of Morocco at the 2022 World Cup also motivated him to join the Atlas Lions squad.

"Of course, the run at the 2022 World Cup also gave me the desire," admits the 19-year-old player. And he continues: "But it’s not just that. When you see what Morocco is doing for football, with the new training center, with what they have put in place to support Moroccan football, it’s incredible. The World Cup in Qatar is a plus. Because the work has been in place for years already."