Speaking ahead of his nation's 2022 FIFA World Cup clash against Spain on Tuesday evening, Achraf Hakimi revealed why he decided to represent Morocco instead of his country of birth.
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Despite being initially from the European nation, where he was born in Madrid in 1998, Hakimi has only ever represented Morocco at youth and senior level.
Having made a staggering 57 appearances at just 24 years old, the former Real Madrid fullback has become a key figure for the African giants, and is likely to start in their round of 16 tie against Spain on Tuesday.
Hakimi, who is currently at Paris Saint-Germain, explained that although he was born in Spain, he always identified more with his African roots.
"I felt it wasn't the right place for me, I didn't feel at home," he told Marca.
"Nothing in particular, but it wasn't how I lived at home, with the Arab culture, being Moroccan."
Morocco advanced from Group F at the top the standing, having won two of their games and drawn one.
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Hakimi started all three matches as Walid Regragui's impressive start to life as Morocco manager continued.
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