FIFA has approved the change of sporting nationality for two young footballers, allowing them to represent Morocco national football team in future competitions.
The decisions, confirmed on Wednesday, mark a significant development for Morocco as they continue to expand their pool of dual-nationality players. At the same time, the rulings represent another setback for the Royal Belgian Football Association, which loses two emerging talents previously eligible to play for Belgium.
Lazaar cleared to represent Morocco
Striker Saifeddine Lazaar is now officially eligible to play for Morocco after FIFA approved his request to switch sporting nationality. The move allows the 19-year-old to join the ranks of the Atlas Lions and potentially feature in upcoming international fixtures.
Official documentation confirmed that Lazaar’s registration has been transferred from the Belgian federation to Morocco’s football authorities. His decision to represent Morocco solidifies his future at international level and places him among the country’s attacking options moving forward.
Born on 11 December 2006, Lazaar currently plays for Belgian side KRC Genk, having joined the club in March 2024. He competes in the Belgian Challenge League and is regarded as a developing forward with potential to progress within both club and international football.
Bonida also switches allegiance
In a parallel decision, FIFA also confirmed the nationality change of Ryan Bonida, another player who had previously been part of Belgium’s system.
The 20-year-old, who plays for Dutch club Ajax Amsterdam, is now eligible to represent Morocco across its various national team levels. His inclusion provides additional depth, particularly within youth and developmental squads, as Morocco continue to invest in future talent.
Strategic gains for Morocco
The approvals underline Morocco’s ongoing strategy of integrating players with dual eligibility into their national setup. By securing the commitments of Lazaar and Bonida, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation strengthens its long-term planning, particularly in attacking and creative positions.
Such moves have become increasingly common in international football, where players with multicultural backgrounds must choose between national teams. In this case, Morocco have successfully persuaded both players to align their international careers with the North African nation.
Belgium face continued talent drain
For Belgium, the decisions represent another loss of promising players who have opted to pursue international careers elsewhere. The departure of Lazaar and Bonida further highlights the challenges faced by national associations in retaining dual-nationality prospects.
Looking ahead
With their eligibility now confirmed, both players could soon feature in Morocco’s squads as the team prepares for upcoming competitions. Lazaar, in particular, may be viewed as a future attacking option for the senior side, while Bonida offers versatility across different levels.
As Morocco continue to build a competitive squad for the years ahead, the addition of these two players signals both immediate reinforcement and long-term ambition within the national team structure.
