By Rabat, Morocco – Real Madrid forward Brahim Diaz has pledged his international allegiance to Morocco, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) announced on Saturday.
The 23-year-old, who has been capped once by Spain at senior level, was born in Melilla, a Spanish autonomous city located on the North African coast.
Diaz has been in impressive form for Real Madrid this season, scoring two goals and providing four assists in 18 appearances in all competitions.
His decision to represent Morocco is a major boost for the Atlas Lions, who are preparing for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Ivory Coast.
“I am very happy to announce that I have decided to represent the Moroccan national team,” Diaz said in a statement.
“I am proud of my Moroccan heritage and I am looking forward to representing my country at the highest level.”
FRMF president Fouzi Lekjaa welcomed Diaz’s decision, saying: “We are delighted that Brahim Diaz has chosen to represent Morocco.
“He is a talented player who will add a lot to our team.”
Diaz is the latest in a line of high-profile players to switch their international allegiance to Morocco.
In recent years, the likes of Sofiane Boufal, Achraf Hakimi and Munir El Haddadi have all opted to play for the Atlas Lions.
The influx of talent has helped Morocco become one of the strongest teams in Africa.
The Atlas Lions are currently ranked 24th in the world by FIFA and they are the second-highest ranked African team behind Senegal.
Morocco are hoping to win their first Africa Cup of Nations title since 1976.
The tournament will be held in Ivory Coast from January 9 to February 6, 2024.
Brahim Diaz talks about his dream of playing for the Spain national team in 2023
