Ivory Coast legend Boubacar Barry respects son Kaïs’ decision to represent Morocco

Former Ivory Coast goalkeeper Boubacar Barry has no qualms with his son, Kaïs Barry after choosing to represent Morocco at the international level.

Kaïs, who previously represented Belgium at youth level, completed his international switch to Morocco in September 2026, opening a new chapter in his international career.

The young defender has since received a call-up to the Morocco U23 squad as he begins his journey with the North African nation.

His decision is understood to be influenced by his Moroccan heritage through his mother, giving him the opportunity to represent the country at international level.

Boubacar Barry, who enjoyed a distinguished career as a goalkeeper for Ivory Coast, has expressed respect for his son’s choice and will not stand in the way of his international ambitions.

“He chose his own path, and we respect that,” the former Ivorian international said.

Barry was a key figure for the Elephants during his playing career, representing Côte d’Ivoire at major international tournaments and playing a prominent role in the country’s triumph at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.

Despite his own history with the Ivorian national team, the former goalkeeper appears content to allow his son to make an independent decision about his international future.

For Kaïs, the switch to Morocco represents an opportunity to establish himself within the country’s national-team structure, beginning with the U23 side as he seeks to progress to the senior team in the future.

His previous experience with Belgium’s youth teams also reflects the different international pathways available to players with multiple national connections. Having now committed to Morocco, the young defender will be hoping to make an impression and strengthen his prospects of earning further opportunities with the Atlas Lions.

Boubacar Barry’s reaction underlines his willingness to support his son’s decision, even though it means Kaïs will pursue his international career with a country different from the one his father proudly represented.