Rising Star Mohamed Ihattaren Commits to Morocco National Team Over Netherlands

After much hesitation, Ihattaren has opted for Morocco, his parents’ country. "Yes, it will be the Moroccan national team for me. Morocco has always been behind me," Ihattaren told Sportnieuws. The former PSV Eindhoven player chose to wear the Moroccan jersey due to the constant support of the Atlas Lions during his difficult times.

If the procedures progress quickly, Ihattaren could validate his change of sporting nationality and be called up by Walid Regragui for the next gathering of the Moroccan team, as part of the qualifications for the 2026 World Cup.

Just over three months ago, Ihattaren had declined the Netherlands’ offer to play in the Under-21 Euro currently taking place in Slovakia, preferring to focus on his club. The Utrecht native had joined the Oranje in 2020 over Morocco, but had not played a single minute under the Dutch banner.

Last season, the 23-year-old player scored 4 goals and provided 5 assists in 27 matches for RKC Waalwijk.