Bouaddi cleared to play for Morocco at 2026 World Cup

France‑born midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi has been cleared to represent Morocco less than a month before the 2026 World Cup. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation announced that FIFA’s Status Chamber approved his change of sporting nationality, making the 18‑year‑old immediately eligible for all international competitions. Born in Senlis to Moroccan parents, Bouaddi plays for Lille in Ligue 1 and previously featured for France’s under‑21 side before committing to the Atlas Lions.

Morocco, who became Africa’s first World Cup semi‑finalists in 2022, begin their campaign on 13 June in New Jersey against Brazil. They are drawn in Group C alongside Scotland and Haiti. The tournament will run from 11 June to 19 July across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Bouaddi’s addition provides a timely boost as Morocco finalise preparations for a demanding group stage, adding another promising young talent to a squad aiming to build on its historic recent success.