Former Morocco star questions Lamine Yamal’s choice to represent Spain, stating ‘we’d have loved him more’
Ex-Morocco midfielder Mustapha Hadji believes Lamine Yamal made an error by not opting to play for the North African country, adding that he won’t receive the same level of appreciation in Spain.
Yamal was born in Spain, though his father hails from Morocco. Having been raised within the Spanish football system, he never wavered in his decision regarding which national team to represent.
According to Hadji, who earned 63 caps for Morocco, this represented a lost chance for the star player from Barcelona.
On the eve of the Africa Cup of Nations taking place in Morocco, he remarked: “Even though he plays for Spain, the affection he will receive from Spaniards will never match that from Moroccans.
“It’s regrettable that he did not select Morocco, because had he chosen us, the experience would have been distinct. It’s unfortunate since, as I recently came across in a Spanish newspaper, some sports journalists commented: ‘We have Pedri, we adore Pedri, we cherish Yamal, but we don’t hold him in the same regard as Pedri.’ This indicates he made an incorrect choice.
“I would have preferred for him to represent Morocco. He will always be Moroccan, even if he represents Spain.”
Yamal already a European champion with Spain
Yamal’s choice has proven mostly justified, having played a vital role in Spain securing the European Championship in 2024, and they are heading into the upcoming World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico as one of the frontrunners.
The 18-year-old acknowledged his awareness of his dual nationality but maintained that he never questioned his commitment to Spain.
In a recent statement, he said: “Yes, the thought of ‘I can play for Morocco’ crossed my mind. They had just reached the semifinals of the World Cup (in 2022), but in the end, I never hesitated.
“With all my love and respect for Morocco, I have always wanted to participate in a European Championship here in Europe. European football has greater visibility and is closer to international football. Being at Barça, I aimed to win a European Championship which, thankfully, I’ve accomplished, and now I look forward to playing in a World Cup with a chance to win it.
“I will always hold a special place for Morocco. It’s my country too. Honestly, it wouldn’t have been unusual or undesirable to play for them, but I grew up in Spain, and I also identify it as my homeland.”
Yamal has been vital for his club, Barca, throughout this season. Hansi Flick’s squad enjoys a four-point lead over Real Madrid as they approach this weekend’s fixtures.
Published: 2025-12-18 09:13:00
source: www.101greatgoals.com
