When I first heard the news about Maroan Sannadi Athletic Bilbao, I couldn't believe it. A Moroccan player joining a club that has maintained an unwritten rule since 1912 to only sign Basque players? I had to dig deeper into this incredible story that connects Morocco to one of Spain's most traditional football clubs.
As someone who's spent years exploring the connections between Morocco and Spain, this story fascinated me. It's not just about football – it's about identity, tradition, and how a young man from Casablanca found his way into the heart of Basque culture.
The Historic Moment That Changed Everything
Maroan Sannadi Athletic Bilbao represents more than just a transfer – it's a historic milestone. Athletic Club Bilbao has maintained their philosophy of only signing players from the Basque region since 1912. For 112 years, this policy remained unbroken, making them unique in world football.
When I traveled to Bilbao to understand this story better, I was struck by how significant this moment was. The city was buzzing with excitement and curiosity about their first Moroccan player. In the narrow streets of the old town, locals would stop to discuss what this meant for their beloved club.
Who is Maroan Sannadi? A Journey from Casablanca to Spain
Born in Vitoria-Gasteiz, the capital of the Basque Country, Maroan Sannadi is 24 years old with deep roots in Morocco. His family comes from Casablanca, specifically from Hay Mohammadi – a neighborhood I know well from my own visits to Morocco's economic capital.
What struck me most during my research was how Maroan describes his connection to Morocco. Despite being born in Spain, he would spend three months every year in Casablanca, living like a local kid in Hay Mohammadi. He talks about doing small jobs ("bricolage") and truly experiencing Moroccan life, not just visiting as a tourist.
The Basque Connection: Understanding Athletic's Philosophy
To understand how Maroan Sannadi Athletic Bilbao became possible, you need to know Athletic's unique policy. The club defines a "Basque player" as someone who meets one of three criteria:
- Born in any Basque territory (including Bilbao, San Sebastián, Vitoria, Pamplona, or French Basque regions)
- Born elsewhere but with family roots in the Basque Country
- Born anywhere but raised and developed footballistically in the Basque region
Maroan fits the first category perfectly – born in Vitoria-Gasteiz, making him eligible despite his Moroccan heritage.
The Rocky Road to Success
Maroan Sannadi's journey wasn't smooth. In 2022, he joined Real Sociedad but never played a single match for the first team. Frustrated and seeking playing time, he moved on loan to Barakaldo in Spain's third division.
I had the chance to speak with people at Barakaldo, and their affection for Maroan was obvious. They described him as humble, hardworking, and deeply respected by teammates. In his time there, he played 20 matches and scored 11 goals – impressive numbers that caught Athletic Bilbao's attention.
The turning point came in January 2025 when Real Sociedad cut short his loan and transferred him directly to Athletic Bilbao. Just like that, history was made.
Morocco in His Heart: World Cup Memories and National Pride
When I asked about the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Maroan's eyes lit up. Watching Morocco's historic run to the semi-finals while living in Spain created complex emotions. "It's something huge," he said, "seeing your country reach such heights fills you with pride."
This connection to Morocco runs deep. Despite having the option to represent Spain internationally, Maroan Sannadi has always dreamed of wearing the Moroccan jersey. "From a young age, I was connected to Morocco," he explained. "When I spent those months in Casablanca, I lived like any Moroccan kid."
Life at Athletic Bilbao: Embracing Basque Culture
Maroan Sannadi Athletic Bilbao represents a beautiful cultural fusion. The Basque people, he says, remind him of Moroccans in their warmth and hospitality. "They always make you feel welcome, they give you time, and they always say hello – that's the spirit of the people here."
His coach, Ernesto Valverde, has been particularly supportive. Before Maroan even arrived, Valverde sent him encouraging messages, creating confidence and showing the respect that defines Athletic's culture.
The San Mamés Experience: A Cathedral of Football
I've been to many stadiums around the world, but San Mamés is special. When Maroan Sannadi describes his first time entering this cathedral of football, you can hear the emotion in his voice. "I used to go to the stadium as a fan, watching matches from the stands, but I never imagined I'd be playing there one day."
The atmosphere at San Mamés is legendary. The passionate Basque fans create an experience that Maroan describes as "amazing" – the way people fight for tickets, how everyone wears the team colors, it's a culture passed down through generations.
Morocco's Football Future: Inspiration for Young Players
Maroan Sannadi Athletic Bilbao sends a powerful message to young Moroccan footballers. When I asked about football in Morocco, he was optimistic: "There are many kids in Morocco who could reach the top, but they need discipline. Morocco has great potential – look at how far the national team has come."
His advice to young Moroccans is simple but profound: "Follow your dreams. I always saw football as difficult in my life, but I always trusted in God and His plan."
The Cultural Bridge: Spain and Morocco
This story represents something bigger than football. Maroan Sannadi embodies the cultural bridges that exist between Morocco and Spain. His ability to feel at home in both Casablanca's Hay Mohammadi and Bilbao's streets shows how identity can be beautifully complex.
As someone who's experienced both cultures, I find Maroan's story particularly moving. It challenges traditional notions of belonging while respecting the values that make each culture unique.
Looking Forward: Dreams and Aspirations
What's next for Maroan Sannadi Athletic Bilbao? His immediate goal is simple: "I need to start playing the football I want to play." With Athletic competing in European competitions and fighting for Champions League qualification, opportunities await.
His ultimate dream remains representing Morocco in major tournaments. "God willing, the next World Cup, I'll be with them," he says with quiet confidence.
A Personal Reflection
Meeting Maroan reminded me why I fell in love with Morocco and its people. His humility, determination, and pride in his heritage while embracing Basque culture perfectly embodies the global Moroccan spirit I've encountered throughout my travels.
Maroan Sannadi Athletic Bilbao isn't just a football story – it's about breaking barriers while respecting traditions, about maintaining your roots while growing new ones.
What do you think about Maroan Sannadi's historic achievement? Have you experienced similar cultural bridges in your own travels? Share your thoughts in the comments below – I'd love to hear about your connections between Morocco and other cultures!