Shamseddine Talbi opens up on Morocco switch, Sunderland rise and World Cup dream

Moroccan international Shamseddine Talbi has spoken candidly about his decision to represent Morocco, describing it as a deeply personal choice driven by identity, family ties, and emotional connection to the country.

The forward, who currently plays for English club Sunderland, confirmed that he had to choose between Morocco and Belgium after previously representing Belgium at youth level. Ultimately, he said, the decision was guided by his heart rather than career considerations.

“I chose to represent Morocco because my heart led me to it. It was a personal decision connected to my family and my identity,” Talbi said in an interview with The National. He added that while the decision was difficult, he knew he had to follow what felt right for him, even if it meant disappointing some people.

Talbi described the experience of wearing the Moroccan jersey for the first time as a defining moment in his career, noting that international football carries a different emotional weight compared to club football. According to him, representing a country brings both pride and pressure, especially when navigating the emotions of choosing between two national identities.

He also reflected on his involvement in the Africa Cup of Nations finals hosted in Morocco, calling it a valuable milestone despite limited playing time. For Talbi, the tournament provided important lessons and a deeper understanding of international competition, both on and off the pitch.

Looking ahead, the forward expressed excitement about the upcoming 2026 World Cup, describing it as a dream stage for any player. He emphasized his pride in being part of Morocco’s squad as they prepare for the global tournament, highlighting the quality and experience within the national team setup.

“It will be a great honor to represent Morocco in the World Cup at such a young age, especially since I’m playing alongside some of the best players,” he said, praising the strong sense of unity within the squad and describing the group as a close-knit, family-like environment.

Talbi also spoke warmly about his adaptation to English football since joining Sunderland from Belgian side Club Brugge. He admitted to initial doubts about the intensity of the Premier League environment but said he quickly adjusted to the demands of the competition and the passionate football culture in England.

His debut season in England has been marked by standout moments, including a dramatic late winner against Chelsea that he described as the highlight of his campaign. The goal sparked emotional celebrations among Sunderland supporters, with fans even chanting his name—a moment he said his family shared proudly, especially his mother.

He also recalled scoring at Anfield against Liverpool, calling it a childhood dream come true and a reminder of how far his career has progressed. According to Talbi, playing in iconic stadiums against elite opposition continues to motivate him to push further.

Beyond individual moments, he praised Sunderland’s passionate fan base and the intensity of local rivalries, particularly derby clashes against Newcastle. He highlighted the importance of those fixtures, noting that the club’s back-to-back victories in the derby were among the defining highlights of the season.

Despite his satisfaction in England, Talbi made it clear that his ambition remains high. While he is enjoying his current development at Sunderland, he expressed a desire to eventually move to one of Europe’s elite clubs, insisting that hard work and belief will continue to guide his journey.

For now, though, his focus remains firmly on Sunderland and Morocco—two stages where his rise continues to gather momentum.