Reda Belahyane is ready to embrace a new chapter with the Moroccan national team. Following his first call-up under head coach Mohamed Ouahbi, the 22-year-old midfielder has shared his excitement about returning to the Atlas Lions and explained what he hopes to bring to the squad.
Currently playing for Lazio, Belahyane arrives at the national-team camp with growing confidence after establishing himself as an important figure in Gennaro Gattuso's midfield. His return comes at an important moment, with Morocco preparing for two encounters against Niger in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Speaking about his latest selection, the midfielder made it clear that representing Morocco remains a source of immense pride.
A Special Moment for Belahyane
Belahyane revealed that he discovered his inclusion in the squad through his family, having been at training when the announcement was made.
- “I discovered the squad list after everyone else because I was at training. My family told me that I had been selected. I was happy. I had already been called up twice before, and this new selection makes me very happy,” he explained.
The midfielder's first international call-up came in October 2024, under former coach Walid Regragui, ahead of Morocco's double-header against the Central African Republic in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers.
His latest selection therefore represents another opportunity to establish himself within the national setup, this time under a new coaching staff and with fresh ambitions.
Proud to Represent a Growing Moroccan Team
The Lazio midfielder also spoke about the progress of Moroccan football and the quality of players currently representing the country.
- “Morocco keeps progressing year after year, so it doesn't surprise me. Even the players called up play for big clubs. I wasn't impressed; I'm proud of my country and proud to be Moroccan,” he said.
His comments reflect the growing reputation of the Atlas Lions, whose players continue to make their presence felt across Europe's major leagues.
For Belahyane, joining a squad filled with established international performers is an opportunity to contribute rather than simply observe.
What Can Belahyane Bring to the Atlas Lions?
The 22-year-old has made 11 appearances for Lazio, becoming an important part of Gattuso's starting lineup, according to the supplied report. The Italian side has also enjoyed a strong start to the Serie A campaign.
Belahyane believes his playing style can offer Morocco additional qualities, particularly in midfield.
- “I hope to get playing time first, and I think I can contribute to the team. I believe I can bring something extra in terms of aggression and physicality,” he explained.
His ability to compete in duels, recover possession and maintain composure in midfield could provide Ouahbi with another useful option.
With Morocco preparing for increasingly demanding international challenges, having midfielders capable of combining technical quality with physical intensity could prove particularly valuable.
A Message for the Moroccan Supporters
Belahyane also took a moment to acknowledge the support Moroccan fans continue to provide to the national team.
- “We thank them for giving us strength at every match and every competition. We will try to make them proud and continue like this,” he said.
That connection between the Atlas Lions and their supporters remains an important part of Morocco's football identity, particularly as the team approaches another major international campaign.
Two Encounters Against Niger Await
Morocco will face Niger twice during the November international window as part of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The first encounter is scheduled for November 13 at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca, before the teams meet again on November 17 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
For Belahyane, the upcoming fixtures could provide the perfect opportunity to translate his enthusiasm into performances on the pitch and demonstrate what he can offer under Ouahbi.
The ambition is clear: earn his place, bring greater intensity to Morocco's midfield and help the Atlas Lions take another step towards AFCON 2027.