Eliesse Ben Seghir, a standout for AS Monaco this season, has opened up about his aspirations with Morocco and the pivotal decisions shaping his young career. The 18-year-old attacking midfielder, who has five goals and three assists in 17 appearances across all competitions, opted to represent the Atlas Lions despite previously playing for France’s youth teams.
“When the Moroccan A team calls you and the coach takes the time to explain the project several times, it becomes an obvious choice,” Ben Seghir said in an interview with Téléfoot.
“I dream of winning an African Cup with my country, or even a World Cup.”
The decision to wear Morocco’s colors holds deep personal significance for Ben Seghir, who dedicated the choice to his late father.
“It’s a huge tribute to him. I think about it all the time when I wear the Morocco jersey. It’s something that drives me to improve.”
Admiration from Coaches and Football Icons
Since making his debut for Morocco earlier this year, Ben Seghir has impressed national team coach Walid Regragui, who praised his unique qualities.
“The quality he has compared to many other players is that he is impactful. He always plays forward and is fearless. Players like that are rare,” Regragui noted.
“It will all come down to his mindset, and I believe he has the mental strength to reach the next level.”
French football legend Lilian Thuram also commended the young talent, emphasizing Ben Seghir’s ability to captivate on the pitch.
“There are very few players who create emotions. All great players have class, and he is already on the right path,” Thuram said.
A Career-Defining Decision
Ben Seghir’s path could have been different. At 15, he came close to signing with Olympique de Marseille (OM) before a late opportunity with Monaco changed his trajectory.
“Before joining ASM, OM was the club I was closest to signing with. I was on the verge of committing,” he revealed.
“But when AS Monaco calls, it’s hard to refuse. My family also played a big role in that decision. Today, I don’t regret it at all—I’m very happy.”
A Promising Future
Ben Seghir has not only established himself in Ligue 1 but also shone on the European stage, helping Monaco reach the Champions League quarterfinals.
With his sights set on achieving greatness for both club and country, the young star’s journey underscores the importance of making the right choices at the right time.
“C’était un choix évident pour moi.”
Eliesse Ben Seghir revient sur les raisons qui l’ont poussé à rejoindre la sélection marocaine au micro de @MamoodTraore et @BarniaudSeb pic.twitter.com/4ExIUv1wiN
— Téléfoot (@telefoot_TF1) December 1, 2024
