Rabat – Morocco’s national team has reportedly included Adnane Abid in its preliminary squad for the November international window, triggering a reaction from the Belgian Football Association and creating a competition between the two federations over the young winger.
The 23-year-old Standard Liege attacker, who holds both Moroccan and Belgian nationality, has enjoyed an encouraging start to the 2026-27 campaign. His performances have placed him at the center of interest of the two national federations.
Abid’s Impressive start to the season
Abid has established himself as an important attacking option for Standard Liege, delivering consistent performances despite the club’s difficult results.
The winger has recorded four goals and four assists in 11 official appearances across the Belgian Pro League and Belgian Cup.
His league record stands at three goals and three assists in 10 appearances, while he also found the net in the Belgian Cup against Dender.
Beyond his goal contributions, Abid has shown his ability to create opportunities and challenge defenders. His league statistics include 19 successful dribbles, 19 chances created, and five big chances created.
The winger’s performances also demonstrate an obvious progress after recording two goals and five assists in the Belgian top flight last season.
Belgium reacts to Morocco’s interest
According to reports, Morocco informed Standard Liege last week of Abid’s preliminary by Atlas Lions coach Ouahbi.
The development prompted a response from the Belgian Football Association, with Simon Mignolet, the federation’s technical director, contacting the player to discuss his international future and understand his intentions.
Born in Verviers, Belgium, on August 23, 2003, Abid previously represented Belgium at youth level, including the U17 and U19 teams. However, he has yet to make his senior international debut.
And his Moroccan eligibility then leaves the door open for him to represent the Atlas Lions at senior level.
The situation brings to light the growing competition between Morocco and European federations over dual-nationality players, with previous examples including Bilal El Khannouss, Chemsdine Talbi, and others.
What could Abid bring to Morocco
Abid’s profile could offer Morocco another attacking option, particularly on the wings. His ability to take on defenders, create chances and contribute directly to goals makes him an interesting prospect for Mohamed Ouahbi.
At 23, he is also at an important stage of his development, having gained valuable experience in Belgian football and established himself in Standard Liege’s first team.
In addition, Abid is a strong candidate for future international opportunities because Morocco continues to monitor emerging attacking talent ahead of major competitions and also due to the recent injuries in the Atlas Lions’ squad which require alternatives.
But a preliminary selection does not guarantee Abid a place in the final squad. The winger would still need to earn the confidence of Ouahbi and demonstrate that he can translate his club performances to the international level.
For the national team, securing Abid’s services would add another young attacking profile to its pool of eligible players. For Belgium, meanwhile, the situation would represent another potential loss of a dual-nationality talent who has progressed through its youth football system.