Marouane Da Costa Embraces Morocco Call-Up Amid Marseille Interest
Sivasspor defender Marouane Da Costa has expressed his enthusiasm for representing Morocco under newly appointed head coach Badou Zaki, while also acknowledging transfer interest from Ligue 1 giants Marseille.
In an interview with France Football, the 28-year-old reaffirmed his commitment to the Moroccan national team, following recent appearances in friendlies against Mozambique and Angola. “As soon as Badou Zaki was appointed coach, he called me with his assistant Mustapha Hadji,” Da Costa revealed. “They explained the Moroccan project to me, with the short-term objective of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, which Morocco is hosting. Morocco is not a fallback option for me — it is part of my identity.”
Zaki, who returned to lead the Atlas Lions in April, is aiming to build a competitive squad ahead of January’s continental tournament, and Da Costa appears poised to play a central role in the team’s plans.
In parallel, the former AS Nancy defender is also attracting attention at club level. Olympique de Marseille are reportedly monitoring Da Costa’s progress, having scouted him on several occasions throughout the season.
“There is interest from OM, I know that,” Da Costa admitted. “But we mustn’t get carried away. These things are common during the transfer window. My father takes care of these matters quietly.”
Da Costa has impressed during his time in the Turkish Süper Lig and has quickly made a mark on the international stage since joining the Moroccan squad. His versatility and composure at the back have made him a valuable asset for both club and country.
As Morocco intensifies its preparations for hosting the Africa Cup of Nations, Da Costa’s dual focus on international duty and potential club movement could shape a pivotal phase in his career.
