The 23-year-old midfielder, currently playing for RKC Waalwijk, confirmed the decision in an interview with Dutch outlet SportNieuwsNL.
"Yes, for me, it will now be the Moroccan team. Morocco has always supported me," he said.
Born in Utrecht to Moroccan parents, Ihattaren holds dual nationality. He represented the Netherlands at youth levels (U15 to U19) but never made a senior appearance for the Oranje, despite multiple call-ups.
Touted as one of Dutch football's brightest talents, Ihattaren broke into PSV Eindhoven's first team at just 17.
However, his career soon hit turbulent waters due to off-field issues, including legal troubles, weight problems, and the death of his father. His struggles with depression and alleged links to criminal groups in the Netherlands brought him close to retirement.
Despite initial resistance to Moroccan overtures - even after being pre-selected by former coach Vahid Halilhodzic in 2019 - Ihattaren ultimately chose the Netherlands early in his career.
A high-profile announcement involving Nike and the Dutch FA marked that decision, although he never debuted, only warming the bench during Nations League matches.
His professional path since then has been rocky, featuring unsuccessful spells at Juventus, Sampdoria, Ajax, and Slavia Prague, all ending without significant game time.
After nearly three years out, RKC Waalwijk gave him a lifeline last season. Ihattaren responded with 4 goals and 5 assists in 28 Eredivisie games, rediscovering his form and passion for the game.
"I've found the joy of playing again," he said.
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