How Lamine Yamal chose Spain: “His father told me they are going to kill him in Morocco”

The battle for dual-national talents in international football has reached an unprecedented level, with federations going to great lengths to secure the best prospects. One of the most intense cases in recent years has been that of Lamine Yamal, the young FC Barcelona sensation, who ultimately chose to represent Spain over Morocco.

Albert Luque, the former sporting director of the Spanish national team, has now revealed shocking behind-the-scenes details regarding Yamal’s decision and the efforts made by both nations to win him over. Speaking on Cadena SER’s El Larguero, Luque described the immense pressure surrounding the youngster’s choice.

“The Moroccan Football Federation and even their government pushed hard for him to play for Morocco,” Luque admitted. “But Lamine was clear from the start. He told me, ‘I want to be European champion. I get pressure from all sides, but I want to play for Spain.’”

While the decision seemed straightforward from Yamal’s perspective, it was far more complicated behind the scenes. His father, who was hesitant about his son representing La Roja, made a chilling statement to Luque: “They are going to kill him in Morocco.”

This revelation sheds light on the intensity and emotional weight surrounding such choices, especially for players of dual heritage who must navigate not only personal aspirations but also cultural and political expectations. Luque further revealed that it was Yamal’s mother who ultimately had the final say in the decision.

“His mother played a decisive role,” Luque admitted. “I even had to lie to her to convince her, telling her it was all about Lamine’s preparation and not about Morocco.”

Yamal’s case is not unique. Over the years, Morocco has aggressively pursued players with dual nationality, particularly those with links to Spain and France. Their recent success in the 2022 World Cup, where they became the first African team to reach the semifinals, has only fueled their ambitions to secure top talents born in Europe.

Another high-profile case that unfolded differently was that of Brahim Díaz. The Real Madrid midfielder had long been in Spain’s plans, with manager Luis de la Fuente calling him up multiple times. However, Díaz grew frustrated with the uncertainty surrounding his international future.

As Spain delayed a final decision on his involvement in Euro 2024, Díaz chose to commit to Morocco, making his announcement via burofax—a formal legal document used in Spain to confirm official communication. His switch sparked widespread debate in both countries.

Luque believes that Díaz may regret his decision. “I think it hurt him not to win the European Championship,” he stated. “It’s not the same playing for Italy as it is for Kenya.” This comment, controversial in nature, highlights the perception differences between competing for an elite European nation and representing a developing footballing country.

While Spain secured Yamal’s commitment, the loss of Díaz may serve as a lesson for the Spanish Football Federation. Luque even admitted that, in hindsight, he might have handled things differently.

“Maybe I should have pushed harder to keep Brahim,” he reflected. “Only time will tell if I was wrong.”

The fierce competition for binationals is not just about talent but also about prestige and long-term footballing projects. Nations like Morocco are using emotional, cultural, and even governmental influence to bring players into their ranks, while European countries rely on professional infrastructure and the lure of top-level competition.

For Yamal, the decision to play for Spain was clear from a sporting standpoint, but the personal and political stakes behind it were far more complex. His story exemplifies the growing battle for the world’s best young talents, with federations leaving no stone unturned to secure the brightest stars for the future.

As international football continues to evolve, these battles will only become more intense, with more cases like Yamal’s emerging in the years to come. One thing is certain—national team decisions are no longer just about football.