Walid Regragui has officially selected player Neil Al-Ainawi for the national team roster for the matches against Niger and Zambia, following reports of the player’s imminent inclusion.
Al-Ainawi, born on July 2, 2001, in Nancy, France, is regarded as one of the promising talents in the football world. He holds dual French and Moroccan nationality but has chosen to represent Morocco internationally, becoming part of a new generation carrying the hopes of the “Atlas Lions.”
At 24 years old, Neil plays as a central midfielder and is currently a star for AS Roma in Italy’s Serie A.
Beginnings and Football Career
Neil began his football journey at an early age, joining the Nancy Academy at eight, after spending his early years in Spain with CF Gavà. He returned with his family to Nancy in 2009, where he continued to refine his skills. In June 2021, Neil signed his first professional contract with Nancy, quickly making an impact on the field.
His debut match with the team was in July 2021 against Toulouse in Ligue 2, and he scored his first professional goal in March 2022 against Paris FC. In June 2023, Neil took a significant step in his career by transferring to Lens in Ligue 1, signing a four-year contract. He showcased his talent with Lens, scoring his first goal against Nantes in October 2023, attracting attention from major European clubs.
Transfer to Roma
In July 2025, Neil achieved a major milestone by joining AS Roma for a fee of approximately €23.5 million, with a contract extending until June 2030. He donned the number 8 jersey and made his Serie A debut against Bologna on August 23, 2025, coming on as a substitute. Neil is known for his versatile midfield play, combining defensive and offensive abilities with a high work rate, making him a valuable addition to any team.
International Commitment to Morocco
On the international stage, Neil was eligible to represent both France and Morocco due to his dual nationality. However, he chose Morocco, making his debut with the Moroccan Olympic team in September 2023 against Brazil. In August 2025, he confirmed his commitment to represent the Moroccan senior national team.
Family Background and Personal Influences
Neil is the son of retired Moroccan tennis player Younes Al-Ainawi and a French mother. He grew up in a sporting family, participating in both football and tennis in his youth, ultimately choosing football. He lived with his family in Gavà, Spain, during his early childhood before returning to Nancy. Neil expresses a deep emotional connection to Lens, feeling at home there, and shared his poignant experiences during the earthquake that struck Morocco in 2023 while with the Olympic team.
For updates, follow Tanja7 on Facebook, Instagram, X, and Nabd.
