Soufiane El-Faouzi has opened up about his decision to represent Morocco rather than Germany, describing his international choice as one guided by emotion and shaped by his first experience with the Atlas Lions.
Speaking to Sky Sports after Schalke's goalless draw against Elversberg, the 24-year-old midfielder reflected on his international debut and the experience that ultimately strengthened his commitment to Morocco.
A First Experience That Left Its Mark
The midfielder received his first Morocco invitation in May and quickly found himself involved with the senior national team.
He made his debut during the Atlas Lions' 5–0 friendly victory over Burundi, an experience that left a strong impression despite the match not being competitive.
- “It was a friendly match. Nevertheless, I really enjoyed the experience and had a good relationship with the coach,” he explained.
That first encounter with the national team would become an important factor in his international decision.
‘A Decision From the Heart’
Because the Burundi match was a friendly, El-Faouzi remained eligible to represent Germany.
With his dual eligibility, the possibility of eventually choosing the German national team remained open.
But after experiencing the Moroccan setup firsthand, he decided to continue with the Atlas Lions.
Describing the choice simply, he called it “a decision from the heart.”
His words underline the personal nature of the decision, with the atmosphere around the national team and his relationship with the coaching staff playing an important role.
Inspired by Morocco’s World Cup Journey
The midfielder also pointed to Morocco's recent achievements on the world's biggest stage.
The Atlas Lions made history by reaching the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, before following that campaign with another appearance at the 2026 tournament.
- “The last two World Cups were very strong for Morocco,” he said.
That progress has helped strengthen his excitement about being part of the national team's next chapter.
He also expressed his enthusiasm about returning to the squad and contributing to Morocco's continued development.
Germany Interest, Morocco Opportunity
His decision comes amid reported interest from Germany.
The Schalke midfielder had reportedly attracted the attention of the German national team's coaching staff following his performances at club level.
However, he was not included in Jürgen Klopp's first 44-player squad.
Instead, Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi selected him for the upcoming international window, giving him another opportunity to continue his development with the Atlas Lions.
A Chance to Make His Competitive Debut
The next step could be particularly significant.
After making his international debut in a friendly, he could now make his first competitive appearance for Morocco as the Atlas Lions begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
Morocco will host Gabon in Rabat on September 25, before travelling to Bloemfontein to face Lesotho on September 29.
The squad will then meet Ghana in a friendly in Tangier on October 4.
A New Chapter With the Atlas Lions
For El-Faouzi, the upcoming fixtures represent more than another international gathering. They offer the Schalke midfielder an opportunity to build on his first appearance, compete for playing time and establish himself within Ouahbi's plans.
Having experienced the Moroccan setup and made his international choice, he now has the chance to turn that emotional decision into a long-term role with the Atlas Lions.
The next step is on the pitch, where he will look to build on his first Morocco appearance and earn a place in the team's future.