Spanish Athlete Slams ’Express’ Citizenship for Soccer Star Amid 16-Year Wait

The athlete, clearly outraged by Spain’s favoritism policy, does not hide it on social networks: "When there is an interest, bureaucracy counts less," Moha Bakkali said, notably on his Twitter account.

He highlighted the difference in procedure for cases like that of Ansu Fati and all the others who are still waiting for naturalization. However, he nuanced that the young footballer was not to blame: "Ansu Fati is not to blame for anything. I’m happy for him. My complaint is against the Ministry and against the bureaucracy of this country, which works very quickly for some and not for others," the athlete told Radio Marca.

At 24 years old, Bakkali, who arrived in Spain at the age of seven with his family, also works as a social integrator in a juvenile center. "We teach the children Spanish culture and how to integrate as quickly as possible to speak Spanish."

According to the data provided by the marathoner, since 1994, 98 athletes have been urgently naturalized in Spain.

Moha Bakkali dreams of competing under the Spanish flag at the Olympic Games. "I hope to get naturalized to compete in Paris 2024. My dream is to be able to represent the Spanish team in a world championship. Spain has given me everything," said the athlete.