Mehdi Benatia’s son Qais Al-Mutqi chooses France Under-15s over Morocco

Qais Al-Mutqi, the promising Moroccan forward and son of former Morocco captain Mehdi Benatia, has chosen to begin his international career with France after being named in their Under-15 squad.

The 2012-born striker, who plays in the youth system at French club Olympique Marseille, was officially included in France’s 18-man squad on Friday. It is his first involvement with an international side at any level.

Al-Mutqi is set to represent France Under-15s at the inaugural Under-15 World Cup and Festival, which will be held in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, from 22 to 30 October this year.

His decision comes as Morocco continues to search for emerging players capable of representing the Atlas Lions in the future. It also highlights the competition between national teams to secure the services of young players who are eligible to represent more than one country.

According to French reports, Al-Mutqi’s selection reflects the interest national football associations are showing in dual-nationality prospects. At his age, he remains able to change the country he represents under the relevant regulations, provided he has not reached the stage of appearing for a senior national team.

France Football Federation announced a squad of 18 players born in 2012 for the tournament, which will bring together some of the leading talents in that age group.

Al-Mutqi’s involvement with France does not permanently rule out a future switch to Morocco. However, his first appearance in the France shirt marks a significant opening chapter in his international career.

The teenager is following a different early path from his father, who enjoyed a prominent international career with Morocco and was one of the country’s leading defenders in recent years. His selection means the Benatia family name returns to the international stage, this time through France’s youth teams.