Why I chose Spain over Morocco – Yamal

Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal has opened up on his decision to represent Spain rather than Morocco at international level.

Born in Rocafonda, Spain, to a Moroccan father and an Equatorial Guinean mother, the 18-year-old was eligible to play for all three countries. Morocco, especially, had a strong pull after their historic run to the World Cup semi-finals.

“Deep down, I was thinking about playing with Morocco. At that time, Morocco had reached the World Cup semi-finals,” Yamal said, as quoted by TouchlineX (via 60 Minutes of CBS News).

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“But in the moment of truth, I never doubted. With all the love and respect I have for Morocco, I always wanted to play in the EURO and in Europe. I believe European football is watched more, and I think it’s closer to the international high level.”

Yamal added that choosing Spain increases his chances of competing at the very top of world football.

“And praise be to God, I did that. It also makes me close to the World Cup with chances to win it… I will always carry love for Morocco, as it is my country too. And I grew up in Spain, and I also feel that it is my country.”

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