World Cup Rush: Barcelona forward keen represent Morocco

Barcelona forward, Munir El Haddadi, who is currently on loan at Deportivo Alaves has challenged FIFA Court of Arbitration for Sport’s (CAS) decision to reject his application to switch nationalities. Munir was a substitute in Spain’s European Championship Qualifier in September 2014 but has now opted to play for The Lions of the Atlas, his parents’ country of origin.

The Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has backed Munir’s appeal and will get a ruling by mid-May "in order for the player's sporting nationality to be decided prior to the commencement of the 2018 World Cup".

"Following the hearing, the panel will deliberate and issue a decision in the form of an arbitral award.” - FIFA Cas

The 22-year-old has appeared 32 times for Alaves this season scoring eleven goals and registering six assists in all competitions. He will undoubtedly be a welcome addition to the Moroccan squad who have to battle Spain, Portugal, and Iran in their group B encounters.