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After being called up to the senior squad by Moroccan head coach Mohammed Ouahbi, Issa Diop wore the Atlas Lions jersey for the first time in recent friendly matches against Ecuador and Paraguay. Morocco drew 1–1 with Ecuador before securing a 2–1 victory over Paraguay, with Diop playing an important role in both encounters.
A shift from logic to heart
For years, Diop’s international path appeared firmly tied to France, where he had been a regular presence from the U16 level through to the U21s. As Diop’s agent, Makhtar Mbengue, explained to Rondo TV, this initial commitment was a “logical” reflection of his background:
“I was born in France, I was trained in France, it is logical that I join the A team,” Mbengue added.
However, a turning point came when the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) presented a project built on a long-term vision. This was not merely a tactical move, but a sincere approach that encouraged Diop to look beyond professional routine.
Issa’s agent said that the depth of the discussions played a decisive role.
“There were strong words from the president of the federation, Faouzi Lekjaa, and the coach, Mohammed Ouahbi… the project they presented, what you hear, and how it touches you, can change your mind.”
The weight of the jersey
The true impact of this decision became clear the moment Diop stepped onto the pitch for his debut against Ecuador and Paraguay. While the choice was made rationally, the emotion was deeply felt.
Reflecting on the experience, Diop admitted to those close to him that wearing the national colors carried an emotional weight he had never imagined.
“When you’re wearing the national team jersey, it’s not the same,” Diop said. “You feel something.”
The atmosphere, especially the national anthem and the energy of the crowd, provided what his agent described as a “baptism of fire,” adding a new dimension to his identity:
“Just in terms of emotion, of representation… the national anthem, the whole stadium standing up… until you have lived it, you cannot understand it.”
A new dimension ahead of the World Cup
Beyond the immediate pride of representing Morocco, Diop’s decision has reshaped his career ambitions. Now emerging as a 1.94m presence in Morocco’s defense, his focus is firmly set on the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
More than just a competition, the tournament represents an opportunity to validate a deeply personal choice. Despite earlier criticism, Diop’s decision is rooted in a genuine connection to his heritage.
“Issa knows Morocco; he goes there often,” his agent emphasized. “It is not a country he could reject… it is a country he loves very much.”
