Rising Star Ismaïl Baouf Chooses Morocco Over Belgium, Sparking Soccer Nationality Debate

"My son Ismaïl has chosen Morocco with all his heart and mind, which is why he has put an end to the idea of playing for the Belgian team again. Moreover, he has obtained his Moroccan sports nationality, which has allowed him to join the Atlas Lions under-20 team, pending joining the first team, led by Walid Regragui," his father, Rachid Baouf, told Al Araby Al Jadeed.

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He assured that his son is not ready to go back on his decision. "My son is happy to play for the team of his country, and he is full of ambition to leave his mark in future competitions. We are proud of him, and we hope that he will soon prove his worth within the Atlas Lions team during the next Africa Cup of Nations, which will be held next year in Morocco," added Rachid Baouf.

Ismaïl had played in different age categories of the Belgian national team, and had even worn the captain’s armband with the under-19 team, before choosing to join the den of the Atlas Lions. He is under contract with Anderlecht until the summer of 2026.