Barcelona's 16-year-old prodigy Lamine Yamal chooses who to represent at senior international level
Barcelona starlet Lamine Yamal has chosen his international allegiance between Morocco and Spain.
The 16-year-old sensation has started his side's last two La Liga games against Cadiz and Villarreal following the red card to Raphinha.
He starred in Barca's 4-3 win over Villarreal as he created the opening goal for Gavi and played a part in Robert Lewandowski's winning goal.
Yamal is set for a breakthrough campaign at Barca, with a couple of national teams fighting over his services.
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The teenager was born in Catalonia to a Moroccan father and an Equatorial Guinean mother. He spent most of his upbringing in Spain as he came through the ranks at La Masia.
It has been reported that Yamal was keen on representing Morocco at senior international level.
But Spain manager Luis de la Fuente wants him to represent them as he plans to call him up for the next international break.
Spanish outlet Sport claim Yamal held meetings with Morocco coach Walid Regragui and Spain representatives.
The report continues by stating that the Barca talent has chosen to represent Spain.
Morocco will announce their squad for the September internationals on Tuesday. Spain will do the same on Friday for their Euro 2024 qualifiers.
He's expected to be named in La Roja's party for their games against Georgia and Cyprus.
Yamal could keep his place in the Barca XI when they resume their league campaign on Saturday against Osasuna.
Xavi spoke highly of the budding winger following his side's victory over Villarreal, saying 'we have big expectations'.
He said: "Of course I am surprised by what he does at his age, he's only just 16.
"Everyone is - I am not an exception. He nearly always makes the best decision, which is what makes the difference in football.
"We have big expectations, even more so when you see what you see [on the pitch]. He is not starting games on a whim. He starts because we feel he can effect matches.
"Like I said, he nearly always makes the right decision, which is important, picking the best option.
"Two assists today, he's intelligent, mature. He's extraordinary."
Nasir Jabbar