MOROCCO: BARAZITE WANTS TO PLAY FOR THE ATLAS LIONS

Monaco midfielder Nacer Barazite has expressed his eagerness to represent the Moroccan national team. Born in Arnhem, Netherlands, to a Dutch mother and a Moroccan father, the 22-year-old began his professional career with Arsenal in 2007. Although he played for the Netherlands in various youth categories, including U17, U19, U20, and U21, he has not yet received a call-up to the senior squad. This situation has prompted him to consider joining the Moroccan national team.

“I played for the Dutch youth teams, which helped me develop my talent,” Barazite stated, reflecting on his earlier years. He went on to express his definitive decision, saying, “Now I have made my choice. I want to play for the Moroccan senior team. It’s an important decision that took me a lot of time and thought. But I am certain of my choice and will do everything to play with the Atlas Lions.”

While it might be premature to confirm Barazite’s inclusion in the upcoming list for Morocco’s decisive return match against Mozambique in the CAN 2013 qualifiers, the potential qualification for the next continental tournament could pave the way for his selection by the new coach, Rachid Taoussi, for the Cherifian kingdom.