LOSC has refused to release Ayyoub Bouaddi for the U21 European Championship with the French national team. The club considers that this tournament, which does not take place during an official FIFA window, does not justify the absence of its young players.
Lille wants Bouaddi to take part in the club’s summer preparations, which are set to begin at the end of June. The 17-year-old midfielder will therefore not join the France U21 squad. His teammate Matias Fernandez-Pardo, who could have been called up by Spain, will also remain with the club.
LOSC president Olivier Létang remains firm in his stance. Already last year, he blocked Lucas Chevalier from participating in the Olympics to avoid weakening the team ahead of a Champions League playoff. Létang does not want Bouaddi—who is seen as a future starter—to miss the beginning of next season.
The final of the U21 Euro is scheduled for June 28, just two days before Lille resumes training. If Bouaddi were to participate, he would then be entitled to an 18-day rest period, which would complicate his reintegration.
Bouaddi, who ended his season while also taking his first-year university mathematics exams, is now preparing to return to training with Lille.
It remains to be seen whether LOSC’s decision could influence the player’s international future. Bouaddi has never publicly expressed a desire to represent Morocco, but his absence from the Euro could prompt him to reconsider.
The Atlas Lions, coached by Hoalid Regragui, are preparing for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, which will be held on home soil. Adding a player like Ayyoub Bouaddi would be a major asset for the Moroccan national team.
