7 most promising players of the Moroccan Botola League by Lions Talk

7 most promising players of the Moroccan Botola League by Lions Talk

1. Akram Nakkach (22 – LB/CB)

A balanced left-back who is physically strong, versatile, and can also play as a center-back or defensive midfielder. He is having a strong season in Botola Pro and was part of Morocco’s U23 team that won the Olympic bronze medal in Paris. While not a regular starter, he made impactful appearances off the bench, even scoring against Egypt in the final game of the tournament.

Expected value: Although Transfermarkt lists his value at €400k, AS FAR would likely demand at least €1 million.

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2. Rayan Azouagh (17 – GK)

The youngest goalkeeper in Moroccan league history, Rayan Azouagh is a highly promising shot-stopper with excellent reflexes. He debuted for IR Tanger against FUS, keeping a clean sheet with a last-minute save, and followed up with strong performances against top teams like AS FAR and WAC. Despite these highs, he endured a tough moment in the derby against Tetouan, where a mistake led to his substitution. The incident caused tensions, with his father publicly criticizing the coach. Financial constraints at IR Tanger and this strained relationship make Rayan an appealing target for European clubs.

Expected value: Without a professional contract, he could be a bargain deal.

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3. Ilyass Lagrimi (20 – LB)

Currently one of the league’s standout left-backs, Ilyass is a product of the Mohamed VI Academy and the starting left-back for UTS Touarga. Known for his good positioning and composure, he initially played as a center-back during his youth but has since solidified himself in the left-back role.

Expected value: Listed at €200k on Transfermarkt, though his club would likely demand a bit more

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4. Reda Laalaoui (19 – CM/DM)

Named the best youth player in the league last season, Reda is a box-to-box midfielder with excellent physicality, high work rate, and strong off-ball movement. He excels in late runs into the box and has an eye for goal, as evidenced by his 4 goals in the UNAF U20 tournament and a last-minute winner against Wydad AC in the Botola Pro.

Expected value: €125k on Transfermarkt, though his contract expires next year.

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5. Mourad Abdelwadie (20 – GK)

Despite SC Mohammedia’s struggles this season, Mourad has been a standout performer. With 1.93m height, he dominates in the air, boasts excellent reflexes, and is among the league’s top goalkeepers in saves, including a penalty stop.

Expected value: €100k according to Transfermarkt, his club is in crisis and needs to sell players as soon as possible.

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6. Mouad Dahak (19 – LW/RW/AM/SS)

And now with one of the league’s best players this season, Mouad has registered 4 goals and 1 assist in just 5 starts this season, making him the joint-third top scorer. Mouad A versatile forward with a low center of gravity, creative and good decision-making for his age, he can operate across the offensive line. As captain of Morocco’s U20 side, he’s been a key and consistent performer over the last two years, and he is highly rated by the Moroccan federation’s scouts.

Expected value: €250k on Transfermarkt.

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7. Mohamed Amine Katiba (18/CM/DM)

Amine, another CM/DM but with a higher potential, played a pivotal role in Morocco U17’s success at the AFCON and World Cup last year. After gradually earning minutes in the league since last season, he has recently established himself as a key player. A dynamic modern holding midfielder, he excels at covering ground, winning duels, aiding in build-up play, and maintaining composure under pressure.

Expected value: €100k