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Monaco's Ben Seghir Chooses Moroccan Heritage Over French Glory

Monday 18 March 2024 - 11:45

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In a bold move that underscores the allure of Morocco's burgeoning football project, Eliesse Ben Seghir, the prodigious Monaco midfielder, has chosen to represent the Atlas Lions over his birth nation, France. The 19-year-old's decision, revealed in an exclusive interview with the French sports daily L'Equipe, has sent ripples through the footballing world, as he becomes the latest dual-national talent to pledge allegiance to the North African nation.

"I'm fortunate enough to have been able to play for two great footballing nations," Ben Seghir confessed during the press conference, his words laced with the weight of his choice. "It was a complicated but well-considered decision, one I made a little over a month ago despite my injury."

Born to Moroccan parents, Ben Seghir's decision was a testament to the powerful pull of his roots, a force that ultimately prevailed over the prestige of representing the reigning World Cup champions. "I made this choice because of my origins; both my parents are Moroccan. It was not an easy choice, but my roots won out," he admitted, his tone equal parts resolute and wistful.

Yet, Ben Seghir's move is more than a mere nod to his heritage; it is a calculated gamble on the ascending trajectory of Moroccan football, a project that has captured the imagination of the footballing world. "Joining the Moroccan team is a great opportunity. When the coach calls you, it is very difficult to refuse," he remarked, alluding to the charismatic allure of Walid Regragui, the architect of Morocco's historic World Cup campaign.

With a steely determination that belies his tender age, Ben Seghir dismissed any notion of hesitation, declaring, "It may seem a bold choice at my age, but why wait when you know what you want? I know what I want."

Ben Seghir's decision adds to the growing list of dual-national talents who have chosen to don the famous red and green jersey, following in the footsteps of Real Madrid's Brahim Diaz. Both players will feature in Morocco's upcoming friendly matches against Angola and Mauritania, fixtures that will serve as a litmus test for the nation's burgeoning ambitions.

As the footballing world watches with bated breath, Ben Seghir's choice stands as a testament to the enduring power of heritage and the irresistible allure of a nation on the rise. With his talent and determination, he may well become the standard-bearer for a new generation of Moroccan footballers, forging their own paths to glory on the global stage.