Sofiane Diop explains his choice of Morocco over Senegal: "A very difficult decision"

Sofiane Diop has revealed one of the most personal choices of his career: representing Morocco rather than Senegal or France. In an interview with RFI, the 26-year-old attacking midfielder for OGC Nice detailed the reasons behind a decision made three years ago that he stands by without reservation.

Born in France to a Senegalese father and Moroccan mother, Diop had the opportunity to represent three different nations. He ultimately turned to the Lions of the Atlas, driven by a desire to connect with a culture he knew less well. “I wanted to learn more about Moroccan culture, because it’s true that I was very used to going to Senegal and I wanted to get closer to my Moroccan culture,” he said.

The former AS Monaco player does not downplay the difficulty of the choice, but is keen to dispel any ambiguity about his feelings toward Senegal. “It was a very difficult choice, but it doesn’t diminish my love for Senegal in any way. I am Senegalese, so in my mind there is no question. But for the choice of national team, I had to make a choice and I decided to choose Morocco.”

Since his first call-ups with the Lions of the Atlas, Diop says he harbors no regrets, instead speaking of a pride shared with those close to him. “Pride, for everyone, for my family, for my friends. No, I am very happy to have chosen Morocco.”

The Morocco international knows, however, that the real work remains to be done. Aware of the fierce competition within an ambitious Morocco squad, he places his club performances at the heart of his priorities. “My objective is to be performing all the time. My club performances are important. There is enormous competition among the Lions of the Atlas and you have to perform in your club to get into the national team. I know what I have left to do now.”