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Regragui explains Yamal's choice to represent Spain over Morocco
Spain's Lamine Yamal. EPA/Kai Forsterling
Thursday Apr 17, 2025. 15:00
Morocco head coach Walid Regragui revealed why Spanish teenage sensation Lamine Yamal decided to play for La Roja instead of the Atlas Lions.
Regragui shared that Morocco made a strong case to convince the youngster to join them by spotlighting the Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the African nation.
They approached Yamal with deep respect, offering a well-considered plan for his future with Morocco and highlighting the emotional ties and history he has with the nation.
“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.
It’s important to recall that in August 2023, Yamal made a crucial decision to represent Spain rather than Morocco.
At only 16 years old, the young player resolved the issue following discussions 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,” Regragui reflected.
“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 neighborhood and has been a part of Spanish football for a long time. He developed his skills at Barcelona’s La Masia academy, where his footballing identity was moulded 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.”
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