The Moroccan national team is preparing to strengthen its lineup with a strong defensive element, as defender Issa Diop from Fulham, England, is close to joining. He has decided to represent the "Atlas Lions" in the upcoming period, paving the way for participation in the 2026 World Cup.

Diop was born in January 1997 in the French city of Toulouse to a Moroccan mother and a Senegalese father. He grew up in a family with ties to football, which helped nurture his talent from an early age, allowing him to quickly emerge as one of the promising names in his position.

The defender began his professional career with Toulouse, where he quickly caught attention with his defensive abilities and managed to wear the captain's armband at a young age. He then moved to West Ham United in a major deal in 2018, having established himself as one of the standout defenders thanks to his physical strength and ability to excel in aerial duels.

In 2022, Diop joined Fulham on a long-term contract, continuing to shine in the English Premier League and becoming a key player in the team's lineup, consistently delivering performances that reflect his experience and ongoing development.

During the current season, the defender has shown outstanding performance, both in terms of passing accuracy and defensive interventions, making him a strong addition to the Moroccan national team's defense line. This is particularly important as the coaching staff seeks to strengthen the team with players ready to compete at the highest level.

Diop's decision to represent Morocco, despite his previous participation with France's youth teams, reflects his desire to embark on a new international experience and contribute to supporting the national team's ambitions in the upcoming phase, particularly aiming for a strong appearance in the 2026 World Cup.