Belgian-born youngster Rayane Bounida agrees nationality switch to play for Morocco

Ajax midfielder Rayane Bounida has reportedly decided to represent Morocco at the international level.

According to Belgian outlet Het Laatste Nieuws, the 20-year-old informed the Belgian Football Association of his decision, which was reflected in his absence from Belgium’s under-21 squad announced on Friday.

Born in Vilvoorde, Belgium, to Moroccan parents, Bounida had been weighing his options for months before making his final choice.

Belgium made several efforts to keep the talented playmaker within its ranks. Under-21 coach Gill Swerts and sports director Vincent Mannaert held multiple discussions with the player and his representatives, outlining the federation’s long-term sporting vision.

However, no guarantees were offered during those talks.

In the end, Bounida made it clear that his allegiance lies with Morocco and expressed his desire to represent the Atlas Lions going forward.

The Belgian FA acknowledged his decision with disappointment but stated that it respected his choice.

The development had been building for some time. Earlier reports from Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri suggested that Bounida had already indicated internally that Morocco was his preferred destination.

Speculation intensified this week when fans noticed changes to his social media activity, including unfollowing Belgium’s national team account while maintaining his connection with Morocco’s federation.

Bounida’s rise has been steady. He developed through the ranks at RSC Anderlecht before securing a move to AFC Ajax in 2022 at the age of 16.

During his time with Belgium’s youth teams, he earned 41 caps across multiple levels and featured twice for the under-21 side last year.