Ayyoub Bouaddi chooses Morocco over France ahead of 2026 World Cup

By Lesley Angu

In a major boost for Moroccan football, highly rated midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi has reportedly decided to represent Morocco at international level, turning down the possibility of playing for France.

The 17-year-old midfield sensation, who has enjoyed a meteoric rise with LOSC Lille, had long been considered one of the brightest dual-nationality prospects on the radar of both nations. France had been closely monitoring Bouaddi, with many expecting the youngster to eventually join Les Bleus’ setup. However, Morocco’s persistent efforts appear to have paid off.

According to exclusive reports from Football Maroc, Bouaddi has now committed his international future to the reigning African champions, a decision seen as another major victory for the country’s football federation, Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF).

Morocco has built a strong reputation in recent years for successfully attracting top dual-national talents, combining sporting ambition with a clear long-term project. Since their historic run to the semifinals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the Atlas Lions have become an increasingly attractive destination for players with Moroccan heritage competing in Europe’s top leagues.

Bouaddi’s decision adds yet another exciting piece to Morocco’s evolving golden generation. Despite his young age, the Lille midfielder has already shown maturity, technical quality, and composure beyond his years in Ligue 1, earning praise for his intelligence on the ball and tactical versatility in midfield.

His potential inclusion in Morocco’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup now becomes a realistic possibility. With the tournament set to be hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, Bouaddi could be part of a Moroccan side aiming to build on its recent global success.

For France, the loss is significant. Bouaddi was viewed as one of the most promising midfield prospects in the country’s talent pipeline, and his decision highlights the increasingly competitive battle between national teams for elite dual-national players.

For Morocco, meanwhile, this is another statement of intent.

Landing a talent of Bouaddi’s calibre reinforces the idea that the Atlas Lions are no longer simply competing in Africa, but building a squad capable of challenging the world’s elite on football’s biggest stage.