Morocco Bans Ait El Hadj for Life: National Team Loyalty Controversy Erupts

The FRMF justifies its position by recalling that the player had, on several occasions, declined the calls of the Moroccan national team, whether under the direction of Vahid Halilhodžić or at the beginning of Walid Regragui’s term. At the time, he had expressed his preference for the Belgian selection, before later initiating a change of sports nationality.

Although Ait El Hadj has recently expressed his desire to join the Atlas Lions, the federation’s response is intended as a "clear message". The selection is presented as "an honor that admits neither hesitation nor bargaining", thus justifying the irrevocable nature of the decision.

However, this version of the facts is contested by the player’s entourage. Sources close to the family deny that he has ever refused to wear the Moroccan jersey. His father stated in an interview that the information according to which "Anouar has refused to represent Morocco is unfounded", adding that his son "is Moroccan and will defend the colors of the national team, if God wills it".