Young midfielder insists international allegiance will be decided “from the heart”
French Under-21 midfielder Ayoub Bouadi has said he will not be rushed into choosing between representing France or Morocco, despite the approaching 2026 World Cup.
The 18-year-old, who is eligible for both nations, made it clear that he intends to take his time over what he described as one of the most important decisions of his career. With the tournament scheduled to take place between June 11 and July 19 across the United States, Mexico and Canada, speculation has intensified over where his international future lies.
However, Bouadi dismissed suggestions that the looming World Cup would accelerate his thinking.
Speaking ahead of France Under-21’s European Championship qualifier against Iceland, he said: “I haven’t made my final decision yet, because choosing the national team is certainly an important decision in any player’s career. I need some time and I never want to rush.”
No deadline despite growing expectations
When pressed on whether he might decide closer to the start of the World Cup, Bouadi reiterated that no timeline had been set.
“There is no specific timeframe. It is a personal decision that comes from the heart. There is also something related to family and what those close to me want, but in general there is no pressure on me in this regard,” he added.
Bouadi has already featured nine times for France’s Under-21 side and recently captained the team for the first time in a commanding 5-1 victory over Luxembourg. His performances at youth level have further strengthened his profile, making his eventual decision even more significant for both nations.
Rising star making impact at Lille
At club level, Bouadi has continued to attract attention with Lille OSC, where he has developed rapidly despite his young age.
He first emerged at just 16, making his professional debut in the UEFA Europa Conference League against KÍ Klaksvík and becoming the youngest player in the club’s history to appear in a European competition.
His progress has been swift. On October 2, 2024, he made his first Champions League start against Real Madrid, playing the full match in a memorable 1-0 victory. His composure stood out, completing 43 of his 44 passes in a performance that drew widespread praise.
Morocco step up recruitment efforts
Officials from the Royal Moroccan Football Federation have been actively working to secure Bouadi’s commitment to the Atlas Lions.
Their efforts are part of a broader strategy that has successfully brought in several dual-nationality players, including Bilal El Khannous, Shamseddine Talbi and Ismael Saibari.
With both Morocco and France expected to compete with strong ambitions at the upcoming World Cup, Bouadi’s decision remains one of the more closely watched international eligibility cases.
A decision still to come
For now, Bouadi appears content to focus on his development rather than external pressure. His measured approach reflects both his age and the magnitude of the choice ahead.
As the World Cup draws nearer, the question of whether he will represent France or Morocco remains unanswered — and, by his own admission, it will only be settled when the time feels right.
