18 months. That’s how long it took Azedinne Ounahi to launch his career. The 22-year-old was playing in French third tier just under 2 years, and now is one of the most sought after midfielders in world football, playing his trade at Anger in Ligue 1.
Morocco’s run at the Qatar 2022 World Cup was exceptional, and the entire football fanbase took notice of it. From Yassine Bounou’s penalty-saving heroics to Sofyan Amrabat’s tireless running in the middle of the park, the Atlas Lions were the talk of the town.
But one player who had gone under the radar was Azedinne Ounahi whose performances alongside Amrabat were as important. His movement and late arrival in the opposition penalty box against Spain in the Round of 16 was what caught the eye of manager Luis Enrique.
Moroccan clubs are also the dominant force in African football right now – winners of the men’s and women’s Champions League titles as well as the Confederation Cup.
Those successes are reflected by the progress made by the 22-year-old Ounahi, who has come on leaps and bounds since first signing for Strasbourg after leaving his homeland in 2018.
How good is Azzedine Ounahi?
In May 2021, US Avranches just about clung on to their Championnat National status, finishing 13th out of 18 sides. But, in spite of their struggles, the French club had a talented young Moroccan in their ranks who was turning heads with stellar performances.
His name was Azzedine Ounahi. An agile midfielder with excellent dribbling skills and outstanding tactical awareness, he never shirked a tackle despite his slim build. It was already clear for all to see that the youngster was destined to play at the highest level.
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However, Ounahi would have to wait for his chance to compete in the top flight. Fresh out of the Mohammed VI Football Academy in Sale, Morocco, the midfielder started his senior career at Ligue 1 side RC Strasbourg in July 2018, featuring initially for the reserves.
Azzedine Ounahi stats
Despite his slim frame, Ounahi is an aggressive…
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