Ajax midfielder Rayane Bounida has officially switched his international allegiance from Belgium to Morocco, marking a significant development for both national teams. The 19-year-traditional, who was eligible to represent either country due to his dual nationality, has informed the Belgian Football Association of his decision.
Bounida’s decision comes after months of attempts by the Belgian federation to persuade him to remain with the Red Devils. Beloftencoach Gill Swerts and sporting director Vincent Mannaert held discussions regarding his role within the team, but were unable to offer guarantees that satisfied the young player. Bounida indicated his heart lies with representing Morocco.
The Belgian FA expressed regret over Bounida’s choice but confirmed they respect his decision and will continue to avoid engaging in competitive offers for players. This marks another instance of Belgium losing a promising talent to another nation, following similar cases with Konstantinos Karetsas and Chemsdine Talbi. However, players like Diego Moreira, Malick Fofana, and Jorthy Mokio have chosen to represent Belgium.
Recent indications pointed towards Bounida’s leaning towards Morocco, as he unfollowed the Belgian football association on Instagram even as continuing to follow the Moroccan accounts. He was as well left out of Belgium’s U21 squad for recent crucial matches against Wales and Denmark on October 10 and 14, 2025, a decision coach Gill Swerts described as “purely sporting,” citing increased player availability and competition for positions. Read more at bladna.nl
Bounida, who has represented Belgium at youth levels, including 41 appearances, was free to choose his national team as he had not yet played a senior competitive match. Footbalkrant.com reports that the player’s decision appears to have been expedited by his recent inclusion in Ajax’s first team.
Adding to the swiftness of the transition, Bounida has been immediately called up to the Moroccan national team. He has already been included in the squad for upcoming matches, signaling a quick integration into the Atlas Lions setup. NU.nl confirms that Bounida has described the move as “the adventure begins.”
FIFA has officially confirmed the switch, solidifying Bounida’s commitment to Morocco. VoetbalPrimeur.be reports that Which means he will no longer be eligible to represent Belgium at any level.
The decision marks a new chapter for the promising young player as he embarks on his international career with Morocco. HLN and sporza both reported on the call-up shortly after the official confirmation.
