Lamine Yamal Spain Star Morocco Regrets Choice

Parc Central de Mataró, located near Rocafonda, filled with supporters watching the World Cup semi-final between Spain and France. Roja and FC Barcelona jerseys were plentiful in the neighborhood where Lamine Yamal grew up.

On Bladi.net : Lamine Yamal Spain Morocco World Cup Choice

For several residents, the question of his identity is beyond doubt. "Lamine is ours, he is from here, from Mataró, from the neighborhood. He grew up here and he is Spanish," says Buba Camara, interviewed by El Mundo.

The Moroccan community is the largest among foreign populations in Rocafonda. Morocco’s matches were therefore followed with great intensity during the World Cup, but Spain’s progress also mobilized around the neighborhood’s own son.

Between Local Pride and Moroccan Regret

The sporting choice of Lamine Yamal continues to provoke different reactions. Some Moroccans bought Spain jerseys bearing his number to support him, while others still regret that he did not choose the Lions of the Atlas.

"Until recently, there was a certain division in the streets between Morocco and Spain, but most people feel something special for him," explains Bernat Muñoz, a resident who had dedicated a school project to the player.

The president of the Rocafonda residents’ association confirms this divide. According to him, many Moroccans in the neighborhood now support Spain because of Lamine Yamal, but some still struggle to accept that he does not represent Morocco.

On Bladi.net : Barcelona Star Lamine Yamal’s Father Stabbed in Possible Hate Crime Attack

Beyond this question, the young international remains an immense source of local pride. Residents recall his goals when he played as a child on the small field at Anselm Turmeda square and follow each of his visits to the neighborhood, which have become rare due to his fame.