SOCCER: Inspired by Iniesta and eyes on Brazil - Morocco’s El Aynaoui stays true to his passion

Neil El Aynaoui has always followed his heart. Despite growing up in the shadow of his father, Younes El Aynaoui—a former Moroccan tennis star who reached a career-high world ranking of No. 14 in 2003—Neil chose a different path and committed himself to football.

That decision has led the 24-year-old to the biggest moment of his career: his first major continental tournament at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where he is proudly representing Morocco.

After emerging as one of Ligue 1’s brightest talents with Lens, El Aynaoui completed a move to Italian club AS Roma in July, signing a five-year contract following two impressive seasons in France. During his time at Lens, he made 49 league appearances and scored nine goals.

“I’ve always loved football more than tennis, and my father encouraged me to follow my passion,” El Aynaoui said in an interview with Roma’s website.

Inspired by Iniesta

El Aynaoui wears the No. 8 shirt as a tribute to Barcelona and Spain legend Andres Iniesta, who has long been his role model.

“Since I was a kid, I adored Iniesta,” he said. “He’s my inspiration, and I try to match his creativity on the pitch.”

Born in Nancy, France, El Aynaoui developed through the local academy system before joining Lens in 2023. His dynamic playing style and versatility quickly caught the attention of Roma, and his move to Serie A has further sharpened his tactical awareness.

“It’s completely different from French football,” he said. “I don’t know if I’ll score as many goals, but I’m confident I can help the team even without scoring. Numbers aren’t the most important thing—giving everything you have is.”

El Aynaoui made his debut for Morocco earlier this year and has since earned seven caps. He started in Sunday’s win over Comoros as the hosts opened their AFCON campaign. Morocco will next face Zambia and Mali, with record crowds expected following the team’s historic run to the World Cup semifinals in Qatar in 2022.

Looking ahead, Morocco’s draw for next year’s World Cup has placed them against five-time champions Brazil in their opening group match, followed by fixtures against Scotland and Haiti.

“It’s a dream come true,” El Aynaoui said. “Facing Brazil at a World Cup is something I’ve wished for since childhood. They have an exceptional generation and incredible individual talent. Our group is tough, with Scotland and Haiti as well.”

However, El Aynaoui’s ambitions extend well beyond the group stage.

“Morocco’s historic achievement in Qatar changed how the world sees African football,” he said. “After 2022, things are different. African teams can go far—we’re no longer here just to take part.”

-Reporting by Ashraf Hamed Atta; editing by Ed Osmond/Reuters