Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal explains his Spain decision, citing European football and World Cup ambitions over Morocco

Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal has confirmed his decision to represent Spain at international level, citing the appeal of European football and the chance to compete at the highest stage.

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The announcement comes after speculation over whether he would choose Morocco, the country of his father, or Equatorial Guinea, the nation of his mother.

Born in Rocafonda, Spain, Yamal explained that he had seriously considered Morocco, particularly after their impressive World Cup semi-final run.

“Deep down, I was thinking about Morocco because they had just reached the World Cup semi-finals,” Yamal told TouchlineX. “But when it really mattered, I didn’t hesitate. With all the love and respect I have for Morocco, I always wanted to play in the EURO and in European football.”

Yamal added that European football attracts wider global attention and offers closer access to top-level competition.

Representing Spain, he said, also enhances his chances of winning the World Cup.

“Morocco is my country too, and I will always love it,” he said. “But I grew up in Spain, and I feel Spanish as well.”

The 17-year-old Barcelona prodigy has rapidly risen through the club’s ranks, making waves with his speed, creativity, and versatility on the wing.

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His decision to commit to Spain signals a major step in his international career and underscores the growing competition for dual-nationality talents in world football.