Teenage midfield sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi has reportedly decided to represent Morocco at senior international level, choosing the Atlas Lions over France ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The highly rated Morocco national football team target had previously represented France at several youth levels, but recent reports indicate he has now committed his international future to Morocco.
Bouaddi, who plays for LOSC Lille, is widely regarded as one of the brightest young midfielders emerging in European football. Despite being only 18, he has already accumulated valuable experience in Ligue 1 and continental competitions, drawing attention from some of Europe’s elite clubs.
Born in Senlis to Moroccan parents, Bouaddi had been at the centre of a long-running international tug-of-war between the two nations. Morocco’s football authorities are believed to have intensified efforts to secure his commitment as they continue building towards the 2026 World Cup in North America.
BOUADDI – ANOTHER SIGNIFICANT WIN FOR ATLAS LIONSÂ
Reports suggest the midfielder’s pathway into France’s senior World Cup plans appeared increasingly uncertain, a factor that may have influenced his final decision to join Morocco.
The development is viewed as another significant win for Moroccan football, which has successfully convinced several dual-national players to commit to the national project in recent years. Following the country’s impressive rise on the global stage, Morocco continues to strengthen its squad with top young talent eligible for multiple nations.
Bouaddi is now expected to become part of Morocco’s long-term plans, with many already tipping him to play a key role in the team’s midfield for years to come, thanks to his composure, technical ability and maturity beyond his age.
Bouaddi now joins a growing list of dual-national stars who chose Morocco over European heavyweights. Brahim DÃazfamously switched allegiance from Spain to Morocco despite representing Spain at the youth and senior levels. Achraf Hakimi, born in Spain, also opted to represent Morocco internationally, while Bilal El Khannouss chose the Atlas Lions despite being eligible for Belgium. Other notable examples include Noussair Mazraoui, Sofyan Amrabat and Neil El Aynaoui, all part of Morocco’s successful drive to attract elite dual-national talent.