FIFA opens the door for a Dutch talent to represent Morocco

Moroccan media confirmed that FIFA has approved the change of nationality for Mohamed Ihattaren, the midfielder for Dutch club Fortuna Sittard, making him officially eligible to represent Morocco in the future, after previously representing the Netherlands. Hesport reported that this step came after significant efforts by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, which closely monitored the player's case in response to his expressed desire to join the Atlas Lions. FIFA announced on its official website that the procedures for changing his nationality were successfully completed. Mohamed Ihattaren is considered one of the most prominent talents to emerge from Dutch stadiums in recent years, and despite his great technical ability, he has faced several challenges in his career. In previous statements, Ihattaren expressed his feeling of unfairness in his experience with the Dutch national team, saying: "When I go through difficult circumstances, I am seen as Moroccan, and when I perform well, I am seen as Dutch." Ihattaren added that his decision to represent Morocco was "a decision that came from the heart," noting that "I am Moroccan in my blood and identity, and the love I found in Morocco is incomparable. I will never wear the Dutch national team jersey again, no matter the circumstances." Ihattaren represented the Dutch national team in 2019 under Ronald Koeman, but his career declined due to personal issues and a decline in performances at club level, which has limited his chances of continuing with the Dutch national team recently.