Mohamed Ihattaren has officially pledged his international future to Morocco, ending long-standing speculation over whether he would represent the Netherlands or the North African nation.
The 23-year-old midfielder, currently on the books of Dutch Eredivisie side RKC Waalwijk, previously featured for the Netherlands at various youth levels but never made a senior appearance for the Oranje.
Despite early approaches from the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), Ihattaren initially declined to switch allegiance.
In an exclusive interview with Dutch outlet SportNieuwsNL, Ihattaren confirmed his decision: “Yes, for me, it will now be the Moroccan team. Morocco has always supported me.”
Born in Utrecht on February 12, 2002, to Moroccan parents, Ihattaren holds dual Dutch-Moroccan citizenship.
Once heralded as one of the most promising young talents in Dutch football, his career was sidetracked by personal and professional struggles, including the death of his father, mental health challenges, alleged links to criminal groups, legal issues, and fitness problems.
His potential seemed to be fading as he bounced between clubs like Juventus, Sampdoria, Ajax, and Slavia Prague without significant playing time.
After nearly three years away from consistent football and a brief stint with Slavia ending in April, his future in the sport looked uncertain.
However, a fresh opportunity at RKC Waalwijk last season proved pivotal. Ihattaren managed to rediscover his form and passion for the game, recording 4 goals and 5 assists in 28 Eredivisie matches.
“I’ve found the joy of playing again,” he said, expressing optimism about his future.
Though he has committed to representing the Atlas Lions, it’s still unclear whether Morocco head coach Walid Regragui will offer him a place in the national setup.
As for his club career, Ihattaren remains open-minded: “The Netherlands would be great, but Belgium is also close. You never know what the future holds in football. The interest has to be real, and they must reach an agreement with my agent. Until then, I’ll wait and see. I believe every step I take now is the right one.”
With a new sense of purpose and direction, Ihattaren hopes to reignite a career once considered among the brightest in European football — this time, wearing the red and green of Morocco.
