Ibrahim Fayek changes international direction and returns to Netherlands national team

Ibrahim Fayek, a midfielder for Feyenoord, has decided to change his international direction once again, opting to return to represent the Netherlands at youth level after a short experience with the Morocco U17 team.

According to media sources, Faïk's decision comes a few months after he participated with the Atlas Cubs in the Africa U-17 Cup of Nations, which was hosted by Morocco last May, after previously choosing to represent the Moroccan national team following past experiences with the Dutch youth teams.

The Feyenoord player's involvement with the Morocco national team in the continental tournament was not significant, as he remained mostly outside the starting lineup in most matches, before getting some minutes during the encounter against the Tunisia national team.

Fayek had decided in September 2025 to wear the Morocco national team shirt, despite having previous experience with the Netherlands youth teams, which opened the door for him to join the Morocco under-17 national team.

Faik returns to the Netherlands.

After a short period with the Morocco national team, the player has decided to return to represent the Netherlands during the youth stages, benefiting from the rules that allow dual nationality players to change the national team they represent at youth levels, according to the conditions set out in FIFA regulations.

This decision brings Ibrahim Fayek back into the spotlight of Moroccan dual-nationality talents being monitored by both the Moroccan and Netherlands federations, especially as the player is viewed as one of the promising names in the Feyenoord academy.

Faiq has previously caught the eye in the Netherlands, having captained their U17 national team before choosing to represent Morocco in 2025. He also previously wore the jersey of the Moroccan U15 national team.

The 17-year-old player continues his journey at Feyenoord, known for its focus on developing young talent.

With his return to the Netherlands national teams early in his international career, Ibrahim Fayek's future at the senior national team level remains open, awaiting the outcome of his next steps with Feyenoord and the development of his professional career.