Chelsea’s teenage prodigy Ibrahim Rabbaj could be on the brink of an unprecedented early call-up to Morocco’s senior national team, as head coach Walid Regragui considers naming the 16-year-old in his squad for June’s international friendlies.
The move reflects Morocco’s growing urgency to secure the services of the Anglo-Moroccan forward before England can stake a long-term claim.
Rabbaj, who has been dubbed the “new Messi” by sections of the media, has been making waves in England with his exceptional talent.
His stats at Chelsea’s youth level are staggering — 52 goals and 60 assists in just 40 appearances — underlining his attacking prowess and ability to influence games single-handedly.
A technically gifted player with a deft left foot, Rabbaj thrives either as a number 10 or on the right wing, where his dribbling skills and trademark curling shots have drawn comparisons to the likes of Arjen Robben and Cole Palmer.
Yet, it is his Messi-like control and vision that have captured the imagination of scouts and fans alike.
Tug of War Between Morocco and England
Born in London to Moroccan parents, Rabbaj holds dual eligibility and has so far navigated between representing both countries at youth level.
In December 2023, he earned his first call-up with Morocco’s U15 side but switched allegiances in 2024 to feature for England’s U15 and U16 squads.
His recent return to Morocco’s setup, earning his first U17 cap in a 0-0 draw against Egypt, signals a potential shift towards representing the Atlas Lions long-term.
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) is keen to capitalize on this momentum.
With Rabbaj’s international future still hanging in the balance, the federation is reportedly accelerating efforts to integrate him into the senior squad as early as June.
Morocco’s upcoming friendlies against Benin and Tunisia offer an ideal stage for Regragui to make his pitch.
Regragui’s Vision for the Future
Coach Walid Regragui has made no secret of his desire to rejuvenate Morocco’s squad by bringing in young, high-potential players.
Inspired by moves from other national teams — such as France’s early call-up for Warren Zaïre-Emery and Spain’s fast-tracking of Lamine Yamal — Regragui sees Rabbaj as a potential cornerstone for Morocco’s future.
“We need to think long-term,” a source close to the federation revealed. “Ibrahim is a rare talent, and it’s essential that we create the right environment for him to thrive with Morocco.”
A senior call-up would not only show the federation’s commitment to Rabbaj but also serve as a strategic move to secure his international allegiance before England ramps up its interest.
Chelsea Future Bright, International Decision Looms
At club level, Rabbaj’s stock continues to rise. Chelsea are closely monitoring his development and are expected to offer him his first professional contract in the near future.
While his path within the club seems well-defined, the same cannot yet be said of his international future.
For Morocco, the race is on. Successfully tying Rabbaj to the Atlas Lions would be a significant coup, especially given England’s proven track record of integrating dual-nationality players into their senior setup.
With the summer friendlies fast approaching, all eyes are now on Regragui’s next move.
Will Morocco secure the signature of its next potential superstar, or will Rabbaj continue to weigh his options? The answer, it seems, will unfold in the coming months.
🚨💣BREAKING:
Ibrahim Rabbaj 🇲🇦 (2009) pourrait faire ses débuts avec l’équipe nationale A dès juin. La FRMF cherche à “sécuriser” le jeune talent de Chelsea🔒. @leprofesseur130 pic.twitter.com/celSx1gURK
— FRMF Xtra (@FRMFXtra) February 18, 2025
