Dutch football officials concerned as young talents choose Morocco over Netherlands

Several Dutch media outlets have reported growing concern among football officials in the Netherlands as more dual-nationality players opt to represent Morocco over the Dutch national team.

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation’s promising sports project has convinced multiple young talents, causing unease in the Dutch federation.

According to “VoetbalPrimeur,” three players have already made the choice to wear the Moroccan jersey. The report states that Mohamed Ihattaren, currently at Fortuna Sittard, has finalized his sporting nationality change and is now eligible for the Moroccan team.

Anas Salah-Eddine, on loan at PSV Eindhoven from Roma and a former Dutch youth international, is also close to joining the Moroccan squad. Rising star Ryan Bonida, who played for Belgium’s youth teams, is expected to make the same move but has not yet begun the paperwork.

Despite recent Dutch efforts to keep dual nationals with their teams, Morocco’s consistent success in attracting top talents, especially following their historic 2022 World Cup run, has swayed many. Sources stress Morocco’s appealing strategy and the strong dreams of young players to join the Atlas Lions’ squad and make their mark on international football