Morocco's Omar El Hilali Calls Donning National Jersey 'Huge Honor'

Young Moroccan central defender Omar El Hilali said he was keen to join the national team, and felt it was a “huge honor” to play for the first team.

“Wearing the national jersey is a great honor. If I’m called up, I’ll be one of the happiest players in the world,” he declared in an interview published on Sunday by the Spanish daily Mundo Deportivo .

The right-back admitted that there was stiff competition for his position in the national team, highlighting that “two of the best full-backs in the world are currently playing for the Atlas Lions.”

However, the Espanyol Barcelona defender is prepared to accommodate. “Wherever I’m placed, in central defense or even on the wing, I’m ready to give it my all,” he said.

The player acknowledges the prestige of representing his national colors and the deep emotion it would evoke for both him and his family.