A rising star in LALIGA has shed light on his decision to turn down the opportunity to represent Spain in favour of playing for African football giants.
RCD Espanyol full-back Omar El Hilali recently opened up about the choice to represent the Morocco national team, one that has fulfilled a lifelong dream, according to the player.
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El Hilali, who came through Espanyol's youth system, has been a standout performer for the Catalan club since making his professional debut in 2021.
Now 21 years old, the right-back has already amassed an impressive 129 appearances for the Pericos.
His contributions were pivotal in Espanyol's promotion to LALIGA at the end of last season, and he remains an integral part of the team as they battle to stay in Spain's top flight.
Born in Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain, to Moroccan parents, El Hilali was eligible to represent either country at the international level.
However, the four-time Moroccan U23 international has always been clear about where his loyalties lie.
Speaking to AS about his decision, he credited his parents and his emotional connection to the North African country as decisive factors.
"Why did I choose Morocco? Well, because my heart told me that I had to play for Morocco and because I wanted to make my parents proud," the defender explained per Afrik Foot.
"I had no doubt about it, and today, I still think that I wouldn't change playing for Morocco for anything in the world."
El Hilali's commitment to the Atlas Lions has already paid dividends, as he played a key role in helping the U23 side clinch the 2023 U23 Africa Cup of Nations.
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His performances are believed to have not gone unnoticed, with speculation mounting that a senior call-up from Morocco head coach Walid Regragui tipped to be on the horizon.