Reda Belahyane earns first Morocco call-up in two years after Lazio resurgence

Lazio midfielder Reda Belahyane has earned his first Morocco national team call-up in two years after reviving his career in Rome with a series of impressive performances this season.

The 22-year-old has been rewarded for his resurgence by Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi, who has included him in his squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Niger.

Belahyane’s return to the international fold marks a significant turnaround for a midfielder who struggled to establish himself at Lazio following his arrival from Hellas Verona in February 2025.

After spending much of his initial period at the Italian club on the sidelines, the midfielder has emerged as an important figure this season, taking advantage of opportunities created by injuries to key players.

His improved performances have now earned him another opportunity to represent Morocco at senior international level, having previously struggled to make an impression during his first two call-ups.

Belahyane’s difficult start at Lazio

Belahyane joined Lazio in February 2025 from Hellas Verona, reuniting with Marco Baroni, who had previously worked with him.

However, the midfielder found opportunities difficult to come by during his initial months at the Stadio Olimpico, struggling to establish himself in Baroni’s plans.

His situation deteriorated further last season following Maurizio Sarri’s appointment, with the Italian coach marginalising him after a red card in Lazio’s derby defeat to Roma in September.

The dismissal proved costly for the youngster, who subsequently struggled to regain his place and fell further down the pecking order.

Having arrived in Rome with expectations of developing into an important member of the squad, Belahyane instead found himself fighting for regular playing time.

Injury crisis provides opportunity for revival

Belahyane’s fortunes have changed considerably this season, with the midfielder emerging as one of Lazio’s most encouraging performers.

Injuries to Nicolo Rovella and Danilo Cataldi created an opening in the midfield, allowing Gennaro Gattuso to give the former OGC Nice academy product an opportunity to prove his worth.

The 22-year-old has seized that opportunity, delivering performances that have established him as an increasingly important part of the team.

His contributions have extended beyond his defensive responsibilities, with his performances in both phases of play earning recognition within the squad.

The midfielder’s ability to make an impact at both ends of the pitch has made him one of the club’s pleasant surprises this season.

His progress represents a remarkable turnaround from his struggles under Baroni and Sarri, having gone from a peripheral figure to an increasingly influential presence in the team.

Morocco recall ends two-year international wait

Belahyane’s improved form has now opened the door to another opportunity with Morocco, with Ouahbi including him in his squad for the upcoming international fixtures.

The Atlas Lions are scheduled to host Niger on November 13 before travelling for the return fixture four days later as both teams continue their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

The call-up represents Belahyane’s first involvement with the senior national team in two years, offering him an opportunity to strengthen his international credentials.

Born in Aubervilliers, France, the midfielder previously represented the European country at under-18 level before switching his international allegiance to Morocco.

He received his first senior Morocco call-up in October 2024 under former head coach Walid Regragui and was selected again the following month.

However, his opportunities were limited, with Regragui handing him just one appearance during that period.

Belahyane made a brief nine-minute appearance against the Central African Republic, leaving him with limited opportunities to establish himself in the national team.

His latest selection therefore offers a fresh opportunity to become a regular member of the Atlas Lions squad.

After overcoming a difficult period at club level, the Lazio midfielder will now hope to translate his improved performances in Italy into a more significant role on the international stage.