Rayane Bounida Chooses Morocco Over Belgium in Swift Switch

Dutch-Moroccan footballer Rayane Bounida has detailed the swift circumstances that led him to choose to represent Morocco at the international level. The 19-year-old Ajax winger, who was also eligible for Belgium, made his decision public in March 2026 after a direct appeal from the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF).

In a video released by the FRMF, Bounida explained that his brother received a pivotal phone call from Moroccan officials, which played a decisive role. "My brother got a call... they asked if I was ready to play for the national team," Bounida recounted, describing the moment as a great honor that solidified his choice to play for his parents' homeland.

The recruitment process moved rapidly, with the federation securing his commitment ahead of upcoming fixtures. Bounida, a product of Ajax's renowned youth academy, is seen as a promising talent for Morocco's future campaigns.

His decision adds to a growing list of dual-nationality players opting for the Atlas Lions, strengthening the squad's depth. The FRMF has actively pursued such talents under the guidance of its technical staff, aiming to build a competitive team for major tournaments.