Morocco yet to make contact with Shaqueel van Persie over nationality switch

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation Morocco has yet to make contact with Feyenoord forward Shaqueel van Persie over nationality switch.

The 19-year-old striker, who is the son of former Netherlands and Manchester United star Robin van Persie, has been mentioned as a potential future option for the Atlas Lions because of his maternal Moroccan heritage.

As per reports, the Moroccan football authorities had begun efforts to convince the young forward to choose Morocco at senior international level. However, information from an informed source indicates that the situation is different from what has been reported.

According to the source, there have been no official negotiations or direct contacts between the Moroccan side and Shaqueel van Persie or members of his entourage.

The source further revealed that Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has not yet initiated discussions with the player, either personally or through his representatives or family.

The reported lack of contact is understood to be linked to the national team’s current assessment of the youngster. Ouahbi is reportedly not yet fully convinced about Van Persie’s technical qualities at senior international level and would prefer to continue monitoring his development before making an approach.

As a result, claims suggesting that Van Persie is already close to making his debut for Morocco do not appear to be supported by any confirmed official communication at this stage.

Van Persie is regarded as a promising talent within the Feyenoord system and operates primarily as a centre-forward. His development has naturally attracted attention given his famous footballing background, although he is attempting to establish his own career away from the shadow of his father.

The youngster has also represented the Netherlands at youth level, including involvement with the Dutch Under-17 setup. He has featured in six matches for the age-group side this season, continuing his development within the Dutch football system.

His previous appearances for the Netherlands youth teams, however, do not necessarily prevent him from representing Morocco in the future, provided he meets the relevant eligibility requirements and completes any necessary change-of-association process.

For now, there is no confirmed indication that Van Persie is on the verge of joining the Atlas Lions. Morocco’s reported position is one of observation, with the national team technical staff expected to continue following the Feyenoord striker’s progress before deciding whether to establish formal contact.

Any potential international switch could therefore depend largely on Van Persie’s development over the coming months and whether Morocco eventually decides to pursue him at senior level.