The decision appears to have been welcomed quickly by the Moroccan camp. The report says Bouaddi received assurances from Ouahbi and federation president Fouzi Lekjaa that choosing Morocco was the right move and that he would receive a special welcome.
Bouaddi said that promise became reality, describing the facilities as high level and the squad as “fantástico”. He added: “Estou muito feliz por representar meu país, Marrocos. Espero que consigamos grandes coisas nas competições que estão por vir”.
That sense of belonging could be important. International switches are rarely only football decisions, particularly for a young player eligible for more than one country. Morocco’s recent rise has also made the choice more attractive, offering Bouaddi a chance to compete on a major stage immediately.
Bouaddi’s emergence at Lille has been remarkably quick. The report says he broke into the first team as a teenager and earned trust under Paulo Fonseca before continuing to develop under Bruno Genesio.
His reputation grew further after a standout performance against Real Madrid, when he started on his 17th birthday. Genesio reportedly praised his potential while also challenging him to become stronger in duels and more effective physically.
That development has helped turn Bouaddi into one of Lille’s most intriguing young players. He has also reportedly attracted interest from Manchester United, although no transfer is confirmed and his immediate focus is now international football.
Morocco’s staff will need to balance excitement with patience. Bouaddi has already made a brief senior appearance, but a World Cup brings a different level of pressure and expectation.
The next storyline is whether he can turn a celebrated international decision into meaningful minutes. A possible meeting with Brazil would offer a dramatic stage, but Bouaddi’s first challenge is earning a regular place in Morocco’s midfield.