Moroccan defender Zakaria El Ouahdi has definitively ended speculation about his international future, affirming his unwavering commitment to the Atlas Lions despite interest from Belgium.
The 22-year-old right-back, currently plying his trade with Belgian side Genk, has reassured Moroccan supporters of his loyalty after his recent comments were widely seen as his openness to representing the Belgian national team.
However, in an interview with in the Belgian media, El Ouahdi clarified his stance, emphasizing his determination to represent Morocco at the senior level.
“Even if I am told that I am 100% sure of being a regular for the Red Devils and that in Morocco this chance is only 10%, I would have a hard time changing. I made this choice with my heart,” he said.
El Ouahdi, who won bronze with Morocco at the Paris 2024 Olympics and the CAF U-23 Africa Cup of Nations 2023, added that he wears the Moroccan jersey with pride.
The defender’s father, Mohamed, echoed these sentiments, stating, “His heart and blood are Moroccan.”
El Ouahdi’s commitment comes as a relief to Moroccan fans, especially with the team gearing up for the crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations which will be hosted by his country later this year.
The Antwerp-born player, who was called up to the senior squad last August but did not feature, reiterated his ambition to solidify his place in the Atlas Lions’ set-up.
