Yamal’s decision to represent Spain rather than Morocco is explained by Regragui

Walid Regragui, the head coach of Morocco, explained why Spanish teenage phenom Lamine Yamal chose to play for La Roja rather than the Atlas Lions.

Regragui revealed that Morocco used the 2030 World Cup, which the African country would co-host, and the Africa Cup of Nations to make a compelling argument for the young player to join them.

They addressed Yamal with utmost respect, outlining his historical and emotional connections to Morocco and providing a thoughtful strategy for his future with the country.

“We tried to get Lamine Yamal, a generational star, to play for Morocco, but he ended up choosing Spain. We wish him luck.” According to Regragui, who was cited by MARCA, “What he does at his age is incredible.”

It’s vital to remember that Yamal made the critical choice to represent Spain instead of Morocco in August 2023.

After speaking with Regragui and the Spanish Football Federation, the 16-year-old young footballer was able to fix the matter.

“I had a direct conversation with Lamine Yamal, and he was truthful with both the Moroccan Federation and me,” Regragui said.

“With the project we have with Morocco, the African Cup of Nations in our nation, the 2030 World Cup, and the love the nation has for Lamine, we tried everything.”

But the child was never dishonest. He choose Spain instead of playing the “I’m Moroccan or Spanish” game.

Yamal has a lengthy history in Spanish football and was born and reared in the Rocafonda neighborhood. He honed his abilities in Barcelona’s La Masia academy, where the Spanish system shaped his footballing identity.

He called me politely two or three days after we spoke, saying, “Sir, thank you for your kindness, but I’m going to choose Spain.” I have a Spanish vibe. He is a very honest young man.

We had conversations with him, his attorney, and his family. When I originally joined the national team, it was my first case. Football is that.