Azzedine Ounahi on Barça's radar

With a knee injury sidelining Frenkie de Jong for several months, FC Barcelona have reportedly added Azzedine Ounahi to their shortlist.

FC Barcelona could take advantage of the summer transfer window to bolster their midfield. Frenkie de Jong suffered a torn medial collateral ligament in his right knee during the 2026 World Cup and isn’t expected to return to action before November.

This lengthy absence is forcing the Catalan management to seek an extra solution in midfield. According to El Chiringuito, Azzedine Ounahi is among the players being considered internally to fill the gap left by the Dutch international.

Ounahi impresses Barça after a stellar World Cup

The Moroccan’s profile is highly regarded for his technical mastery, his ability to withstand pressing, and his knack for advancing the ball between the lines. His adaptation to La Liga is also seen as a major asset.

Ounahi featured in six matches at the 2026 World Cup, starting five times and logging a total of 438 minutes. The 26-year-old midfielder scored twice—both goals coming against Canada in Morocco’s 3-0 round-of-16 victory. Named man of the match, he played a crucial role in the Atlas Lions’ run to the quarterfinals.

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His quality in transitions, high work rate, and composure under pressure have once again attracted the attention of several top European clubs.

Mission accomplished at Girona

With Girona, Ounahi recorded five goals and two assists in 24 league matches last season. Despite the Catalan club’s relegation, he established himself as one of the squad’s standout performers.

Signed by Girona for around six million euros and under contract until June 2030, the former Marseille man has yet to make any decision regarding his future. Barça, for their part, have not submitted any official offer at this stage.

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

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Football web writer creating digital sports content with a focus on news, analysis and stories that reflect passion, accuracy and objectivity.

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