Rabat – French-born midfielder Wahib El Antary has reportedly decided to represent Morocco internationally, ending recent speculation over whether he would play for the Atlas Lions or the Pharaohs.
The 17-year-old was included in Morocco’s U-17 squad after previously attracting the attention of the Egyptian national team.
El Antary had been on Egypt’s radar for some time, with the Egyptian coaching staff reportedly attempting to contact him and convince him to join the team ahead of upcoming youth competitions.
However, the midfielder did not respond to the latest approaches and eventually appeared on Morocco’s U-17 squad list.
From Egypt’s Camp to Morocco’s Squad
El Antary previously joined Egypt’s youth national team camp in July 2025. His performances reportedly impressed Ahmed El-Kass, who was coaching the age group at the time.
The midfielder later fell out of Egypt’s plans for the North African qualifiers and the Africa U-17 Cup of Nations.
Egypt’s 2009-born national team reportedly contacted El Antary around a month ago in an attempt to bring him into the squad preparing for the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar, scheduled for November 19 to December 13.
Media reports said the player did not respond to the invitation.
Egypt had also reportedly considered El-Antary for an international tournament in Switzerland involving eight teams from five confederations, including Brazil, England, Spain, Colombia, South Korea, Côte d’Ivoire, and Canada.
Instead, the teenager is now expected to join Morocco’s U-17 team.
Morocco Call-Up
El Antary has been included in the Morocco U-17 squad coached by Ahmed Kantari.
The young midfielder is expected to take part in the Copa tournament in Spain during the current international break, giving him an opportunity to begin his international journey with Morocco.
His call-up has attracted attention in both Morocco and Egypt because of his previous involvement with the Egyptian youth setup.
Egyptian media personality Ahmed Shobier reacted to the decision on X, wishing the player success while also calling for greater attention to young talents.
“First, Egypt and Morocco are one. I wish him success,” Shobier wrote.
He also argued that young talents require greater follow-up and effort from national football authorities.
Who is Wahib El Antary?
Born on March 6, 2009, in Angers, France, El Antary has both Egyptian and Moroccan heritage. His background also gives him a connection to France at international level.
The teenager plays as a central midfielder, according to Transfermarkt, a position that links the defensive and attacking phases of the game.
At club level, El Antary currently plays for the Angers reserve team. He joined the club in January 2025 after previously developing at the Cholet academy.
His move toward Morocco’s youth setup could now mark the beginning of a new international chapter for the young midfielder, who has experience in both French and Egyptian football environments.
