Rayane Bounida closes door on Belgium, chooses to represent Morocco | OneFootball

Ajax attacking midfielder Rayane Bounida has informed the Royal Belgian FA that he will represent Morocco at international level.

Speaking to Sporza, Belgium Under-21 coach Gill Swerts said Bounida was omitted from his latest squad because he had chosen the Atlas Lions. He added that the federation had received a letter confirming the decision and wished the player success while focusing on those selected.

Born in Vilvoorde on the outskirts of Brussels, Bounida came through Anderlecht before moving to Ajax at 16.

Able to operate centrally or out wide, he has broken into Ajax’s first-team group this season, recording two goals and eight assists in 24 matches.

The Belgian-Moroccan prospect had featured for Belgium at youth level and drew attention early for his technical ability. He was regarded as one of the country’s most promising dual nationals. His choice mirrors that of Chemsdine Talbi, who also opted for Morocco before the Africa Cup of Nations, and Konstantinos Karetsas, who chose Greece in 2025.

Source: L'Équipe