Mohamed Ihattaren is among the players likely to compete in the U21 European Championship with the Netherlands. The Dutch Football Association (KNVB) has contacted his agent, but the RKC Waalwijk player is not yet considering this possibility. In an interview with Goedemorgen Eredivisie on ESPN, he stated that he has not had direct communication with the national team officials and prefers to focus on his club. While he feels honored by this interest, he emphasizes that his priority remains on the pitch and that he does not distinguish between a potential career with the Netherlands or Morocco.
Since joining RKC, Ihattaren has rediscovered the joy of playing after a difficult period marked by prolonged absence. He admits he neglected football in the past but now realizes the importance of moments on the field. His return to form comes with a more relaxed mindset, and he acknowledges that he has come to understand that some things go beyond the realm of football. His renewed happiness has allowed him to reconnect with his passion and to appreciate every match he plays.
To avoid the mistakes of the past, Ihattaren has surrounded himself with a strong support network, including his agent José Fortes Rodriguez, who helps him manage the off-field aspects of his career. Former player Ricardo Kishna also plays a key role as a mentor. Since September, the 23-year-old midfielder has been playing regularly with RKC following unsuccessful stints at Juventus, Sampdoria, Ajax, and Slavia Prague. With three goals and three assists in the Eredivisie this season, he now acknowledges that his journey depends entirely on him and his future choices.
