Moroccan national Coach Zaki Badou has given his reaction to Munir Al Haddadi’s selection for the Spanish national team.
The 19-year-old Barcelona striker was a surprise choice in Vicente del Bosque’s squad to face Macedonia in Monday’s Euro 2016 qualifier, following Diego Costa’s withdrawal through injury.
Despite being born in Spain the player is eligible to play for Morocco, the country of his father’s birth.
“Patriotism can’t be bought or rented out. You can’t reject citizenship,” former Real Mallorca player Badou told reporters prior to the Spain-Macedonia game last night.
“A while ago the Moroccan Football Federation contacted the player and his family with a view to him representing Morocco.
“If he plays one game for Spain then there is no turning back. His decision needs to be respected.”
Nonetheless, Munir made his international debut for La Roja against Macedonia when he replaced Koke after 77 minutes and has now nailed his colours firmly to the Spanish mast, having already played for the Under-21 side.
