Mohamed Ihattaren Names Feyenoord as ‘Dream Club’ Amid Transfer Speculation

In the volatile world of Eredivisie transfers, few narratives are as intriguing as the resurgence of Mohamed Ihattaren. Despite recently committing his future to Fortuna Sittard with a contract extension in late March, the Moroccan international has openly admitted that his ambitions lie elsewhere, specifically pointing to Feyenoord as his dream destination.

The admission comes at a delicate time for the 24-year-old, who has found a semblance of stability in Sittard after a nomadic few years across Europe’s top leagues. For a player once touted as one of the greatest talents to emerge from the Netherlands, the public nature of these revelations suggests a player eager to prompt-track his return to the pinnacle of Dutch football.

The ‘Dream Club’ Revelation

The spark for the current speculation was ignited during an appearance on the ESPN programme Goedemorgen Eredivisie. During the broadcast, veteran reporter Hans Kraay Jr. Detailed a conversation he had with Fortuna Sittard manager Danny Buijs regarding Ihattaren’s trajectory. According to Kraay Jr., Buijs believes Ihattaren is close to reaching his full potential, noting that if the player can add “that final fifteen per cent” and maintain a rigorous training schedule through the summer, he would become a “real asset to Feyenoord.”

When questioned on air whether this conversation actually took place, Ihattaren did not hide his smile, confirming that he and Buijs had indeed discussed the possibility of a move to the Rotterdam-based giants. The admission transforms what might have been quiet internal planning into a public declaration of intent.

For global followers of the Eredivisie, this move would represent a full-circle moment for Ihattaren. Having navigated loans and permanent moves across various tiers of European football, the allure of a title-contending side like Feyenoord aligns with his perceived ceiling as a creative force.

Breaking Down the Price Tag: The €3 Million Clause

While ambition is free, transfers are not. During the same ESPN interview, Ihattaren provided a rare glimpse into his contractual obligations, revealing a release clause of €3 million. In a market where top-tier talents often command eight-figure sums, this figure makes Ihattaren an exceptionally attractive prospect for any club looking for high-upside creativity on a budget.

However, the player suggested that the €3 million figure might not be a rigid barrier. Ihattaren noted that due to the fact that he joined Fortuna Sittard on a free transfer, the club would likely not “make a fuss” if a suitor offered a slightly lower amount. This flexibility significantly lowers the barrier to entry for interested parties, effectively turning the Moroccan into a “bargain” in the eyes of the Dutch media.

This financial transparency is unusual for a player currently under contract, but it underscores Ihattaren’s desire for a “logical step” in his career, whether that move happens within the Netherlands or abroad.

A Tactical Shift: The ‘Deep-Lying Right Winger’

Beyond the financials and the destination, Ihattaren offered a glimpse into how he views his own evolution on the pitch. When Hans Kraay Jr. Asked where he would best fit into a high-level side, Ihattaren described himself as a “deep-lying right winger.”

This is a nuanced distinction from his traditional role as a classic number 10 or attacking midfielder. A deep-lying winger typically operates in the half-spaces, dropping back to collect the ball from the midfield and driving it forward, rather than staying hugged to the touchline. For a manager, this versatility provides a tactical tool to break down low-block defenses, a common challenge for teams at the top of the table.

The shift in positioning may be part of the “final fifteen per cent” that manager Danny Buijs believes Ihattaren needs to master to succeed at a club of Feyenoord’s stature.

The Long Road Back: From Wonderkid to Resurgence

To understand why a move to Feyenoord matters, one must look at the tumultuous path Ihattaren has traveled. Born in Utrecht and raised in the Kanaleneiland district, Ihattaren was the crown jewel of the PSV Eindhoven academy. His early rise was meteoric, leading to a high-profile move to Juventus in 2021.

However, the transition to Italy was fraught with difficulty. Ihattaren struggled to break into the first team, leading to a series of loan spells that saw him move to Sampdoria and later to Ajax and Jong Ajax. A subsequent stint at Slavia Prague and a period with RKC Waalwijk further illustrated a career in search of a permanent home and consistent form.

His arrival at Fortuna Sittard has proven to be the turning point. As of January 25, 2026, records display he has made 17 appearances and scored 4 goals for the club. While the numbers are modest, the consistency of his minutes has allowed him to rediscover the confidence that first made him a sensation in the youth ranks.

Career Path Summary

International Identity: The Switch to Morocco

Ihattaren’s professional journey has been mirrored by a shift in his international allegiance. Despite representing the Netherlands at various youth levels—including winning the UEFA European Under-17 Championship in 2018—the player officially opted to represent the Morocco national team in 2025.

This decision reflects both his heritage and a strategic move to secure consistent international football. For a player seeking to rebuild his reputation, the opportunity to feature for the Atlas Lions provides a global platform that could further increase his market value and visibility to scouts from Europe’s elite leagues.

The Stakes for Fortuna Sittard

For Fortuna Sittard, the situation is a double-edged sword. On one hand, they possess a player with immense talent who has contributed goals and creativity to their campaign. On the other, they have a player who has publicly stated his desire to leave, even just days after signing a contract extension.

The extension signed in late March was likely a strategic move by the club to ensure they would not lose Ihattaren for free. By securing his registration, Fortuna ensures that any move to Feyenoord or another club will result in a transfer fee, protecting the club’s investment and providing a financial windfall that can be reinvested into the squad.

The fact that manager Danny Buijs is openly discussing Ihattaren’s potential fit at Feyenoord suggests a relationship built on honesty. Rather than suppressing the player’s ambitions, the coaching staff seems to be using them as motivation for Ihattaren to reach that “final fifteen per cent” of his potential.

What’s Next?

The immediate focus for Ihattaren will be maintaining his form and fitness through the remainder of the season and the subsequent summer break. If he adheres to the training regimen suggested by Buijs, the summer transfer window could spot a formal bid from Feyenoord or other interested parties.

The upcoming fixture between Feyenoord and Fortuna Sittard will be closely watched by scouts and fans alike, as it provides a direct audition for Ihattaren to prove he can compete against his “dream club” and justify the €3 million valuation.

Whether he makes the move to Rotterdam or finds another “logical step,” Mohamed Ihattaren is no longer just a former wonderkid—he is a professional fighting to reclaim his place at the top of the game.

Do you think Ihattaren is ready for the pressure of a club like Feyenoord, or should he spend another season developing at Fortuna? Let us know in the comments.