Morocco Calls Up Barcelona B Defender Chadi Riad for First Senior Team Appearance

"It’s an immense pride, it’s something I’ve dreamed of since I was little and I’m very grateful for the trust placed in me. I’ll go with great desire to represent the country of my parents," said Chadi Riad to the media of the Barcelona club. The 19-year-old player recalled having won the African Games with the Moroccan under-15 team, also expressing his pride in wearing the Barça jersey, the "most famous club in the world and in Morocco." "There are a lot of people who dream of coming here and playing for this club. I’m very grateful to be one of the few who can wear this jersey."

Chadi Riad also saluted the historic performance of the Atlas Lions who reached the semi-finals at the last World Cup in Qatar. "Moroccan football was not known to many people. We have gradually increased our level until we were able to reach the semi-finals of a World Cup...," said Chadi Riad proudly, who should make his debut against Brazil. "Morocco has a very powerful team, full of talent, both in attack and defense. A very difficult match awaits us and we will work to win it."