Jones El-Abdellaoui has officially received approval from FIFA to switch his international allegiance from Norway to Morocco, making him eligible to play for the North African nation in future competitions.
The decision by football’s world governing body marks a significant step in the career of the rising talent, who currently plies his trade with Celta de Vigo Fortuna, the reserve side of La Liga’s Celta de Vigo.
The 18-year-old, who joined the Spanish club on 8 January 2025, has been closely followed for his technical skill and growing influence in midfield.
Previously eligible to feature for Norway, El-Abdellaoui’s change of sporting nationality allows Morocco to tap into a player widely regarded as a bright prospect on the European scene.
His eligibility switch comes after a successful application process and now clears the way for him to be called up to Morocco’s national youth or senior teams.
El-Abdellaoui’s development has been closely monitored by Moroccan football authorities, and the official clearance is seen as a strategic boost for the country’s ambitions at international level.
With his versatility, vision, and composure on the ball, he is expected to add depth and energy to the national setup.
The midfielder’s transfer to Celta de Vigo Fortuna earlier this year was viewed as a key move in his career, providing him with an opportunity to mature within a Spanish footballing culture known for nurturing technical players.
Since his arrival, he has impressed with his ability to read the game, deliver precise passes, and maintain a strong presence in central areas.
His switch of allegiance is also a reflection of Morocco’s growing efforts to attract dual-nationality talents with roots in the country.
In recent years, the Moroccan Football Federation has ramped up its outreach to players eligible for more than one country, seeking to bolster the national squad with a broader base of talent developed in top European academies.
El-Abdellaoui’s inclusion in the Moroccan setup, when it comes, will be closely watched by both fans and analysts. Expectations are high for him to contribute meaningfully to a side that continues to rise in stature on the global football stage.
While no immediate call-up has been confirmed, the path is now clear for the midfielder to don Morocco’s colours in future international fixtures.
The federation is expected to monitor his progress at Celta de Vigo Fortuna over the coming months as they consider how best to integrate him into their plans.
FIFA’s validation marks a milestone in El-Abdellaoui’s journey and signals the start of a new chapter in his international career—one that he hopes will be filled with opportunity and success under Morocco’s banner.
