Morocco head coach Walid Regragui has recently shed light on Lamine Yamal’s decision to play for Spain rather than the African nation.
Regragui stated that Morocco prepared a strong case to convince the young Barcelona star by highlighting the African Cup of Nations and the upcoming 2030 World Cup—an event that Morocco will co-host.
They approached Yamal with complete admiration, presenting a thoughtful vision for his future with Morocco, while also emphasising the emotional connection and the history he shares with the country.
“Lamine Yamal is a generational star who we tried to get to play for Morocco, but he chose Spain, and we wish him the best of luck. What he does at his age is incredible,” said Regragui as quoted by MARCA.
A Spaniard through and through
It should be remembered that in August 2023, Yamal made a defining choice by opting to represent Spain instead of Morocco.
At just 16 years old, the footballer settled the debate after meetings with the Spanish Football Federation and a conversation with Regragui.
“I spoke directly with Lamine Yamal and he was honest with me, and also with the Moroccan Federation,” remembered Regragui.
“We tried everything with the project we have with Morocco, with the African Cup of Nations in our country, with the 2030 World Cup, with the affection the country has for Lamine.
“But the kid never lied. He didn’t play the “I’m Moroccan or Spanish” game and chose Spain.”
Yamal was born and raised in the Rocafonda neighbourhood and has long been involved in Spanish football. He came through Barcelona’s La Masia academy, and his footballing identity has been shaped by the Spanish system.
“Two or three days after speaking with him, he called me respectfully and said, ‘Sir, thank you for your kindness, but I’m going to choose Spain. I feel Spanish.’ He’s a very honest kid.
“We spoke with the family, with him, and with his lawyer. It was the first case I had when I joined the national team. That’s football,” noted Regragui.
