Ilias Akhomach reveals secret behind choosing Morocco

Ilias Akhomach, a player for Villarreal, has settled the debate regarding his choice to represent the Morocco national team, affirming that his decision was not one of hesitation, despite his previous experience with Spain's youth teams, up to the Under-21 national team.

The player expressed his desire to represent Morocco was clear from the beginning, while also expressing gratitude for the treatment he received during his time with the Spanish national team, emphasizing that his international choice was made with complete conviction.

In an interview with the Spanish newspaper 'Castellón al Día', Ilias Akhomach talked about his motivations for his decision, as well as his future ambitions, foremost among them participating in the FIFA World Cup, alongside the difficulties he faced due to injuries during the past period.

Ilias Akhomach confirmed that his choice to represent Morocco was not a difficult decision, despite having represented Spain at various youth levels. He pointed out that he had known from an early age which national team he wanted to continue his international career with.

A Villarreal player said: "I have always known what I wanted for the future, and it has been clear to me. I will always be grateful to the Spanish national team for the way they treated me, but no one gives you anything for free, and every player is where they are because they deserve it. I have always wanted to play for Morocco."

The player's statements reflect his commitment to his international decision, having chosen to represent Morocco. He confirmed that his gratitude for his previous experience with Spain does not conflict with his desire to wear the jersey of the 'Atlas Lions'.

Ilias Akhomach has revealed his ambition to participate in the FIFA World Cup for the first time in his career, considering that appearing in the tournament represents one of the greatest achievements a football player can achieve.

The player talked about the impact of injuries on his career during the past period, explaining that he was experiencing a good phase with Rayo Vallecano before physical issues affected his continuity, in addition to preventing him from preparing for the season with Villarreal as required.

Akhomach spoke about that period: "These things happen in football. I was having a good time with Rayo, but injuries at the end of the season affected me a lot, and I wasn't lucky with injuries and missed the pre-season period with Villarreal."

He added that he returned with great enthusiasm for the current season, expressing his hope of achieving his dream of participating in the FIFA World Cup one day.

He continued: "Now I am back again and I am excited for the current season, and I hope to one day play in my first FIFA World Cup, as it is the biggest thing a football player can achieve."

A Villarreal player addressed the difficulties of recovering from an ACL injury, noting that the challenge is not limited to the surgery itself, but also extends to the long period away from the pitch and the psychological pressures it imposes on the player.

Ilias Akhomach has stated that being absent for a period of eight to ten months is a tough test, especially since returning to competitive environments and regaining rhythm after a long absence requires a lot of patience and hard work.

He said in this regard: "Staying away from the pitch for eight, nine, or ten months is difficult, even psychologically, but I have a strong mentality, and no one has given me anything easily, and things have not always been easy for me, yet I managed to overcome the difficulties."

Ilias Akhomach hopes that his return to the pitch will help him regain his form and have a strong season with Villarreal, while continuing his international journey with Morocco and pursuing his dream of participating in the FIFA World Cup.