In a September 2024 broadcast of the Antena 3 (Spain) program "Espejo Publico", Fatima spoke out as her grandson's national team future became a hot topic. "He is not Moroccan. He was born and raised here. My son did not force him to do anything. Yamal can play for Morocco, France, or Spain, anywhere he wants," she stated.

Previously, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) and coach Walid Regragui had repeatedly tried to persuade Yamal to play for their national team, but he chose to represent Spain – where he was born and raised.

These statements previously sparked controversy in Morocco. Ahead of the World Cup final, they once again circulated on social media, reigniting discussions about the young star's identity.

Yamal and his grandmother receiving a jersey in 2025. Photo: Sportsgully.

Fatima is not only Yamal's grandmother but also the pioneer of her family's settlement journey. Over 30 years ago, she left Morocco alone for Mataro, a city in the Catalonia region. There, she worked various jobs to save money, then gradually brought her children to reunite with her.

Abdul, the eldest of five siblings and Yamal's uncle, was the first to arrive in Barcelona at the age of 20. He recounted: "My mother came to Spain when she was 40. She came alone and worked diligently. When she was able, she brought each of her children over. I was the first, followed by Mounir – Lamine's father – when he was just 9 years old."

Many believe this journey gives Fatima's statements more weight than an ordinary opinion. She not only defended her grandson but also spoke as someone who had directly experienced the immigration process and built a life in Spain.

At the age of 73, Fatima still regularly attends the stadium to cheer for Yamal. Although the young player lives at the La Masia boarding facility, he visits her in the Rocafonda neighborhood whenever he has time off. Their reunions always involve crispy fried chicken and scrambled eggs prepared by her.

By Nhat Minh (According to Elespanol, Lavanguardia, Timesofindia)