Belgian Pro League winger Chemsdine Talbi has made his final decision, choosing the Atlas Lions over the Red Devils. Before committing to the Moroccan national team, the 19-year-old Club Brugge player was pursued by the Belgian side. Media reports reveal that Sporting Director Vincent Mannaert made efforts to convince Talbi to join Belgium. «He came to see him with his own eyes—a fast winger with skillful feet and an interesting profile», wrote De Morgen on Monday. However, the Moroccan federation was also in contact with the young talent. «I have already spoken to both countries», Talbi said shortly before making his choice. «They were born here and received their education in Belgium, where clubs have invested significant time and energy», Mannaert added after failing to convince Talbi. «If at a certain point they decide against choosing Belgium, that is their right—but we will move forward with players who do want to represent us|, he added. According to Mannaert, Talbi was disappointed that no one from the Belgian football association had reached out before Mannaert himself intervened. «I tried to restore that trust, but in the end, it wasn't enough to make him choose Belgium». Born in Belgium to Moroccan parents, Chemsdine Talbi plays as a winger for Club Brugge in the Belgian Pro League. After joining Club Brugge's academy in 2015, he signed a professional contract in 2022 and began his career with Club NXT in the Challenger Pro League, scoring on his debut. He was promoted to Brugge's first team in early 2023 and made his league debut in March. Internationally, he represented Belgium U17, scoring in the 2022 UEFA European Under-17 Championship.
