In recent years, Morocco has emerged as a rising force in world football, the result of a structured project and a long-term vision. The impressive performance of Morocco's U20 team at the World Cup in Chile perfectly illustrates this success. The Atlas Lion Cubs have reached the semifinals, largely powered by players from the Moroccan diaspora. Indeed, young Moroccans abroad represent a major talent pool, offering the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) a wide range of profiles trained in elite European academies in France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain, and Italy, yet whose hearts still beat for Morocco. Their choice to represent Morocco rather than their countries of birth reflects a deep sense of belonging. The journey to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar further strengthened this generational bond between young Moroccans in the diaspora and their homeland, reigniting a shared pride in seeing the national flag shine on the world stage. Yanis Benchaouch: Following in the footsteps of Yassine Bounou At just 17, AS Monaco goalkeeper Yanis Benchaouch chose to represent Morocco's U20 team after an impressive season with the club's youth side (9 matches, 3 clean sheets). Quick, well-positioned, and composed in the air, he is already seen as one of the brightest prospects in his position. Ismaël Baouf: The rock in defense At 19, Ismaël Baouf, who plays for SC Cambuur in the Netherlands after a stint at Anderlecht, has established himself as a cornerstone of Morocco's defense. His solid performances at the U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt and later at the World Cup in Chile earned him a spot in the tournament's Round of 16 Best XI, according to Sofascore. Yassine Jassim: The midfield maestro Born in France to Moroccan parents, Yassine Jassim (19), an attacking midfielder for Dunkerque, dazzled at the U20 World Cup, where he was named Man of the Match against both Spain and Brazil. With his elegant technique, sharp vision, and lethal left foot, he is a complete playmaker. His market value, estimated at €2 million, has already drawn attention from clubs such as Marseille, Arsenal, and Dortmund. Othmane Maama: The youthful winger Trained at Montpellier, Othmane Maama (19) stood out for his pace and ability to pierce defenses on both flanks. Originally from Khemisset, he scored one of the tournament's most beautiful goals against Brazil and was named Man of the Match in Morocco's 3-1 victory over the United States. He now hopes to convince national team coach Walid Regragui to call him up for future continental competitions.
