Criticized by some Moroccan supporters after opting to represent the Netherlands internationally, Mohamed Ihattaren has found himself at the center of controversy. The young midfielder’s camp has accused the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) of playing a role in his decision — allegations the federation strongly denies.
Facing backlash following his choice, Ihattaren’s brother, Yassine, broke his silence and pointed the finger at the Moroccan authorities, claiming inappropriate behavior from the federation contributed to his brother turning away from the Atlas Lions.
“It’s unbelievable. They came to my father’s funeral to discuss my brother’s selection. It was a sad day meant only for condolences. That’s why we preferred to distance ourselves from these people,” Yassine said, suggesting that the FRMF attempted to use the family’s bereavement to push Mohamed toward choosing Morocco.
The federation, however, firmly rejects these claims. Speaking to Le 360° Sport, a federal source denied any wrongdoing.
“How can anyone imagine that the FRMF would use such an event to talk about football? We sent Noureddine Naybet and Aziz Bouderbala solely to offer condolences. At no point did they discuss his international future,” the source stated.
The same source added that contact with Ihattaren had been ongoing long before his father’s passing.
“Mustapha Hadji was regularly in touch with the player, who was already on Hervé Renard’s radar before his breakout this season. Naybet and Bouderbala had even travelled to the Netherlands to meet him prior to his father’s death.”
Meanwhile, rumors circulating in the media suggested the FRMF had offered extravagant incentives — including a 150-room hotel and around thirty houses — to persuade the PSV Eindhoven talent to commit to Morocco. The federation categorically dismissed those reports.
“The Federation has never offered anything to players to convince them to choose Morocco. We didn’t even do that for Ziyech, who is far more established than Ihattaren,” the source concluded.
