Young footballer Ilias Akhomach has declared his intention to represent the Moroccan national team in the future. In a recent interview with Spanish media, he emphasized that choosing Morocco over Spain was a straightforward decision.
«While I appreciate what Spain has done for me, my true identity lies in my Moroccan heritage and culture», Akhomach stated. «Choosing Morocco was never a difficult decision; it was always on my mind».
? Ilias Akhomach?? en @relevo :
— Futbol Marroqui 212 (@FutbolMarroqui) February 15, 2024
"Al final SOY MARROQUÍ. Y mi cultura y orígenes son de Marruecos"
"NO fue una decisión difícil (elegir a Marruecos)"
"SIEMPRE LO TUVE CLARO, mi entorno lo sabía"
"Agradezco a la selección española por lo que ha hecho por mi" ✅️? pic.twitter.com/QLE9kcEUGe
The Villarreal player confirmed that his close circle was aware of his preference for Morocco.
This news follows Akhomach's transfer from Barcelona to Villarreal last June and his invitation by Moroccan Olympic coach Issame Charaï to participate in November's friendly matches against Denmark and the United States.
Previously, Akhomach represented Spain across various youth categories, playing for the U-16 (3 matches), U-18 (8 matches), U-19 (19 matches), and U-21 (3 matches) teams.