Morocco call up Rayane Bounida after FIFA nationality switch approval

Morocco have called up Rayane Bounida for their upcoming friendly matches after FIFA approved his change of sporting nationality.

The 20-year-old Ajax midfielder has been selected by national coach Mohamed Ouahbi for fixtures against Ecuador and Paraguay, marking a significant step in his international career.

In a statement issued on Wednesday evening, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation confirmed that Bounida’s inclusion follows official clearance from FIFA, allowing him to represent Morocco after previously playing for Belgium at youth level.

Bounida had featured across multiple age groups for Belgium, including the U16, U17, U18, U19 and the under-21 side. His decision to switch allegiance paves the way for his involvement with the Atlas Lions at senior level.

The midfielder is now set to be part of the squad for two scheduled friendlies. Morocco will face Ecuador on 27 March at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid, before taking on Paraguay on 31 March at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis in Lens.

The national team arrived in the Spanish capital on Wednesday as preparations for the first match entered their final phase.

Prior to their departure, the squad had completed two training sessions at the Mohammed VI Football Complex on Tuesday and Wednesday.

These sessions formed part of the build-up organised by the coaching staff as they prepare the team for the international fixtures.

The matches are expected to provide an opportunity to assess players and refine tactical approaches.

Bounida’s call-up represents a notable addition to the squad, as Morocco continue their preparations during the March international window.

His inclusion follows the administrative process required to complete his switch and reflects the federation’s confidence in his potential at senior level.