Mohamed Ihattaren's Journey: From Dutch Prodigy to Redemption at Fortuna Sittard

Had things gone to plan, Mohamed Ihattaren might be a global star by now – a full international returning from a summer spent competing against the elite at the 2026 World Cup. Instead, he watched at home before reporting for pre-season training at Fortuna Sittard, the modest Eredivisie outfit and seventh club of the 24-year-old attacking midfielder's turbulent career. Ihattaren is one of European football’s great lost talents – like a Dutch-Moroccan version of former Manchester United attacker Ravel Morrison.

Early in his career, he caused controversy in the Netherlands by contemplating a switch to Morocco, having played for the Oranje at every youth level before eventually declaring for the Dutch after a personal intervention by then national-team manager Ronald Koeman. In 2025, after his career had collapsed, he reversed that decision, but is yet to win a senior cap for either nation. A tempestuous romance played out in the Dutch tabloids, and even in the courts, after allegations by his then-girlfriend, now reportedly his ex-wife, Yasmine Driouech, that he had committed domestic abuse. He completed 60 hours of community service. At the same time, links to members of the so-called 'Mocro Mafia' were uncovered by a police investigation sparked when a high-ranking gangland figure arrived at court in a car registered in Ihattaren’s name.

In March 2019, Ronald de Boer watched Ihattaren's first 45 minutes as a starter for PSV Eindhoven with absolute amazement, praising his maturity and effortless play. Pierre van Hooijdonk also lauded him as by far the best player on the field, comparing him to Clarence Seedorf. The Utrecht-born youngster quickly secured a place in PSV’s starting XI, but within a year, the death of his father in October 2019 profoundly impacted him and preceded a series of disciplinary problems that derailed his career at the Philips Stadion. His form, fitness, and commitment dwindled, with then-PSV coach Roger Schmidt lamenting his lack of professionalism, alongside concerns regarding his relationship with super-agent Mino Raiola.

The breaking point came in the summer of 2021 when Ihattaren was pictured at Nice’s training ground alongside Raiola after being granted sick leave by PSV. He joined Juventus a few weeks later on a four-year deal, but it marked the start of a severe decline. Spells at Sampdoria, Ajax—where club legend Wesley Sneijder tried to mentor him—Juventus, Samsunspor, Slavia Prague, and RKC Waalwijk all failed to revive his career due to off-field scandals, lack of fitness, and disciplinary issues.

Now rebuilding his career at Fortuna Sittard under manager Danny Buijs, Ihattaren is showing flashes of his immense natural talent. After scoring twice and assisting another in a 3-2 win against ADO Den Haag, he is working hard behind the scenes to let his feet do the talking. Having scored six times and provided 10 assists in 28 Dutch top-flight games during the 2025/26 season, and continuing his form into the new campaign, Ihattaren remains determined to represent Morocco internationally, closing the door on the Netherlands as he strives to reach the game's highest levels once again.