"A great honor"... Ounahi reflects on Enrique's praise after the match against Spain!

Europe 17 September 2025 at 11:00

Mohamed Rek

News Editor

Moroccan international Azzedine Ounahi has looked back on one of the most defining moments of his career: the praise he received from Luis Enrique after his dazzling display against Spain in the round of 16 at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Officially unveiled by Girona, the midfielder spoke with emotion:

“After beating Spain, I ran so much. I didn’t even know where that energy came from, but it’s an honor to have performed so well. Beating Spain at the World Cup was historic, but now new challenges are coming with the national team.”

Ounahi shares how Bounou influenced his decision

Having transferred from Olympique de Marseille, Ounahi expressed his delight at joining Girona—a move he never hesitated to make:

"I am proud to wear the Girona shirt, a place that suits my style of play.
I had other offers that would have secured my family’s future, but I’m not thinking about the future right now; I just want to focus on the present and play well for Girona."

He also revealed that Yassine Bounou, his national teammate, played a decisive role in his choice:

"I spoke with Bounou, who knows the club and the city very well. He even told me he’d come to see me play.
The Morocco national team coach also had good things to say about the club—everyone’s opinions were positive. In the end, what I wanted was to play for a good club, beyond just the money, and to enjoy playing football."

At 25, Ounahi has already made his debut in the Catalan shirt against Celta Vigo. Starting the match, he played 82 minutes and delivered a strong performance in his first appearance.

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