Brahim Diaz earned his first call-up to the Moroccan national team in March 2024. The Real Madrid player, eligible to represent Spain as well, opted to don the jersey of the Atlas Lions, a decision attributed in part to the persuasive efforts of Achraf Hakimi, a stalwart in the Moroccan squad.
According to reports from Marca, in addition to the concerted efforts of the Moroccan Football Federation and coach Walid Regragui, a behind-the-scenes campaign involving seasoned internationals has been instrumental in recruiting new talent.
Among these influential figures, Achraf Hakimi, currently plying his trade with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), played a pivotal role in persuading Brahim Diaz to join the Moroccan ranks.
Hakimi’s influence extended beyond mere encouragement, as he reportedly engaged in personal outreach to Diaz, advocating for the merits of representing Morocco on the international stage.
This proactive approach underscores Hakimi’s commitment to bolstering the national team’s roster and fostering a sense of unity among players of Moroccan heritage.
Following Diaz’s decision to commit his international future to Morocco, Hakimi publicly celebrated the news, extending warm congratulations to his new teammate via social media channels.
This gesture not only showcased Hakimi’s support for Diaz but also emphasized the camaraderie and solidarity within the Moroccan football community.
The successful recruitment of Brahim Diaz exemplifies Morocco’s strategic efforts to strengthen its national team by tapping into the talent pool of players with dual nationality.
With seasoned campaigners like Achraf Hakimi leading the charge, Morocco aims to build a formidable squad capable of competing at the highest levels of international football.
As Morocco continues its quest for sporting excellence, Hakimi’s role as a recruiter and ambassador highlights the importance of experienced players in shaping the future trajectory of the national team.
With Hakimi’s leadership both on and off the pitch, Moroccan football looks poised for further success on the global stage.