Zakaria El Ouahdi, the promising Moroccan footballer, is on the brink of significant change as he looks to the future following his exclusion from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN). Recently appointed coach Mohamed Ouahbi's arrival could mark a turning point for El Ouahdi, who, despite his impressive club statistics, was overlooked during the tenure of former coach Walid Regragui. With his recent call-up for a friendly match against Paraguay, El Ouahdi is now more determined than ever to secure a place in Morocco's squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, aiming to elevate his career prospects and ambitions.
In his latest appearances, including his debut last March, where he made a notable impact, El Ouahdi has showcased his ability to perform under pressure. This season, the 23-year-old has posted remarkable figures as a defender, netting 8 goals and providing 4 assists in the league, alongside an additional 4 goals and 1 assist in the UEFA Europa League. His offensive style of play, likened to that of renowned player Achraf Hakimi, has made him a formidable force on the field, although he acknowledges the need for improvement in defensive alignments.
The Competitive Landscape of Moroccan Football
However, the road ahead is challenging, as El Ouahdi faces fierce competition for his position in the national team. With elite players like Hakimi and versatile talents such as Noussair Mazraoui and Omar El Hilali, the selection for the World Cup is anything but guaranteed. El Ouahdi's acknowledgment of Hakimi's prowess as arguably the best right-back in the world reflects his realistic understanding of the competitive landscape. His immediate goal is to establish himself as a credible backup and secure a spot on the final roster for the 2026 World Cup.
Beyond national team ambitions, El Ouahdi has his sights set on advancing his club career. He intends to leave his current club, Genk, for a more prestigious team this summer, aligning his aspirations with a desire for greater challenges. His commitment to supporting his sick father has influenced his decision to stay in Genk thus far, but now he is ready to pursue his dreams without compromise. El Ouahdi's vision is clear: to shine at the World Cup and transition to a club that matches his ambitions.
As reported by afrik-foot.com.
