U17 World Cup: a controversial omission sparks debate in Morocco | OneFootball

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·22 October 2025

U17 World Cup: a controversial omission sparks debate in Morocco

Article image:U17 World Cup: a controversial omission sparks debate in Morocco

A controversial omission stirs debate in Morocco ahead of U17 World Cup

Article image:U17 World Cup: a controversial omission sparks debate in Morocco

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Morocco U17 head coach Nabil Baha has left out rising star Ibrahim Rabbaj from the U17 World Cup squad.

Drawn in Group A, the Lion Cubs will face Japan, New Caledonia, and Portugal in the opening round of the tournament.

The absence of the Chelsea prodigy has not gone down well with Moroccan football fans, especially since many see him as the future successor to Hakim Ziyech for the Atlas Lions.

Article image:U17 World Cup: a controversial omission sparks debate in Morocco

What should you know about Rabbaj?

A hugely talented player, Ibrahim Rabbaj is capable of operating as a right winger, left winger, or even as a playmaker.

At just 16 years old, he has already been promoted to the U18 squad, making 3 appearances and scoring a goal during the third matchday of the U18 championship against Aston Villa.

Born in Leicester, he is eligible to represent both Morocco and England.

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