Azzedine Ounahi: A Rise From Humble Beginnings to World Cup Glory

In this article, we dive into the complete story of Azzedine Ounahi, a footballer who captured global attention during the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. His impressive performance on the pitch even had the legendary Spanish manager Luis Enrique marveling, exclaiming, “Who is this player?”

Growing up with his two brothers, Azzedine’s love for football was a family affair, with a cousin and an uncle also pursuing careers in the sport. Beyond his on-field achievements, our biography explores Azzedine Ounahi’s early life, family dynamics, and personal details.

We’ll cover his childhood story, delve into his family background including his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ounahi, his brothers, his ex-wife Sarah Ibriz, cousin Reda Mahnawi, and other relatives. Additionally, we look into his family origin, nationality, religion, lifestyle, and personality. Let’s uncover the full story of Azzedine Ounahi.

Preamble:

Our version of Azzedine Ounahi’s Bio begins by unveiling notable events of his boyhood years. Next, we’ll explain the baller’s heritage, including his early career highlights. Finally, we’ll tell how the Moroccan, a student of Mohammed VI Academy, rose to become one of the best midfielders in his country.

We hope to whet your autobiography appetite as you read this piece of Azzedine Ounahi’s Biography. To get started, let’s delve into this photo collection that chronicles his journey—from his childhood days to his ascent in the national team. Truly, this Casablanca native has travelled an impressive path in his football career.

Azzedine is widely recognized as one of the many talents emerging from Morocco’s football scene. The centre midfielder began drawing attention when winning a bronze medal in the Mediterranean Games 2018. Also, the athlete is the IFFHS Africa Team of The Year in 2022.

While covering African football stars from Morocco, we realized a missing link. Surprisingly, only a few enthusiasts are familiar with Azzedine Ounahi’s Biography. Thus, we have put together this captivating life story just for you. Let’s dive right in!

Azzedine Ounahi Childhood Story:

For Biography starters, Azzedine Ounahi was born on the 19th of April 2000 to his Moroccan parents in Casablanca.

The midfielder is the product of his Parent’s marriage. Research indicates that Azzedine Ounahi has two siblings, making him the middle child in his family. Before we proceed, let’s show you his Mother, as his father is absent in the photo.

Growing-Up and Early Life:

Azzedine Ounahi hails from Casablanca, Morocco. Growing up, he and his two brothers shared a passion for football. This affinity for the sport wasn’t just limited to the siblings; even a cousin and an uncle pursued football careers. Here is the childhood photo of the lad.

Details about Azzedine Ounahi’s father remain unknown, leading to speculation about his role in his son’s life. However, it’s evident that his Mother played a significant role in raising the trio.

Despite the challenges of raising three sons, she remained steadfast in her dedication to her children. Given the family’s collective love for football, it’s tempting to think that Azzedine Ounahi’s father had a hand in sparking that passion.

Azzedine Ounahi Family Background:

Parents play a crucial role in a family’s structure, well-being, and growth. Their responsibilities can be broad and multifaceted. Azzedine Ouhani’s father and Mother are tasked with caring for their child’s physical, emotional and spiritual aspects.

Before determining what Azzedine Ounahi’s parents did for a living, let’s look at the job opportunities in his hometown. While many job opportunities are available for all genders, it’s essential to understand that Moroccan society is traditionally patriarchal.

However, in urban areas like Casablanca, women increasingly participate in the workforce, take up leadership roles, and break traditional gender roles. This change is more evident in the finance, education, and healthcare sectors.

Since there is little info about Azzedine Ounahi’s father, his Mother took his place. Hence, she must have been employed in any of the vacant areas in their hometown. Nonetheless, it wasn’t an easy job caring for three boys.

So, venturing into his career, the midfielder would have gotten the zeal to ease his Mother’s hard work. And we are sure the footballer needs to excel in his game and become the best. After all, every cash that comes in would be to improve his life.

Azzedine Ouhani Family Origin:

The footballer was born in Casablanca, Morocco. The exact ancestry can also be about Azzedine Ouhani’s parents. However, we proceed here is the map showcasing his birthplace.

What do we know about Azzedine Ouhani’s hometown? Firstly, Casablanca has the largest mosque in Africa. In addition, the city is the economic powerhouse of Morocco. It has one of the biggest artificial ports in the world, which serves as the naval base for the country’s naval base.

Apart from its significant tourism, Morocco boosts its football prowess. Here are some players who share Azzedine Ounahi’s Nationality with him- Nayef Aguerd and Youssef En-Nesyri.

Azzedine Ounahi’s Ethnicity:

Certainly! Like much of Morocco, Casablanca is home to a blend of diverse ethnicities. Some groups in Azzedine Ounahi’s hometown are the Arabs, the Berbers (Amazigh), Sahrawis, the Jews and the Sub-Saharan Africans.

It’s worth noting that while these are distinct ethnic groups, there has been a significant amount of cultural exchange over time. This includes the various blending and intermarriage, leading to a rich, diverse tapestry that characterizes Casablanca today.

However, the name “Azzedine Ounahi” sounds distinctly Arabic in its construction. So, North African footballers belong to the Arab population.

Azzedine Ounahi Education:

From what we know about Azzedine Ounahi’s family, his Mother didn’t have a lot of money. This could have made school challenging for them. But they found a way to make things work without missing out entirely. The African player went to the Mohammed Academy.

The Moroccans took a different path than most. Instead of hitting the books in school, he laced up his soccer cleats in preparation for the game. Why? He felt his passion and future lay in football and wanted to dedicate all his time and energy to mastering the game.

Azzedine Ounahi Biography – Football Story:

The baller (Azzedine Ounahi) started his football journey as a youngster in the streets and plazas of Lalla Meryem, his home district in Casablanca. However, a golden fish is difficult to hide, so the Raja Club discovered him. This photo shows him in the RCA recruitment canteen.

In order to sharpen his football skills, Ounahi went to the Mohammed VI Football Academy for further training. When he was eight years old, the recruiter came for him to see the little boy with others.

Although the Arabic athlete was smaller, it wasn’t a stopping point for him. Instead, the midfielder continued in his football quest together with his brothers. What was the turning point for him? After graduating from the Mohammed Academy, he left the shores of Morocco.

All the way from France, FC Strasbourg in 2018 got him his first professional contract. At this time, Azzedine was already 18 and equipped to join his new team and French identity.

Road to Fame Story:

Racing Strasbourg B was in the fifth Tier in the French league. In 2018–2020, while Azzedine was among the top arrivals, he was taking the position of Youssouf Fofana, who was among the departures.

After 35 appearances and scoring one goal in Strasbourg, progress was found in Ounahi’s career. The defensive midfielder joined a third-tier league in France on a free transfer, the US Avranches. What was his performance in this new club? The pitch master was among the top goal scorers in the 20/21 season.

As if that wasn’t enough, the Casablanca-born athlete moved further to the Ligue 2 in Angers SCO. The central midfielder was among the top arrivals on a transfer loan worth over 70 thousand dollars. It was at an unbelievable pace that Azzedine was moving through the ranks. What does the future hold? Please keep reading.

Before the heights in his career, what were the challenges that Ounahi faced? Although not explicitly stated, some newbies face the financial difficulties of always going to the training grounds. That was why Victor Boniface‘s grandmother complained about the transportation fee during his time.

What about the mental pressure of consistently meeting the demands of coaches and occasional setbacks that may come in? Not to mention the physical exertions on these athletes trying to build their careers. Undoubtedly, Azzedine must have gone through these problems and emerged stronger.

Azzedine Ounahi Biography – Rise to Fame Story:

In January of the 2022/23 season, Azzedine Ounahi made a significant move to Olympique Marseille, joining during a winter transfer window that also welcomed Vitinha, Alexis Sanchez, and Nuno Tavares to the club. For the central midfielder, this transfer marked the realization of a long-held dream, allowing him to make his impact in Ligue 1.

Ounahi’s contract will last till June 2027 and costs over 7.5 million Euros. The midfielder showcased his prowess in his debut by giving a net goal against Nantes. Words will fail us if we pen down the excited moments the first-tier footballer got his deal. Azzedine wasn’t only representing his club but also his national team.

Ounahi teamed up with the Morocco U20 squad for the 2018 Mediterranean Games. Subsequently, they clinched a bronze medal following a triumphant penalty shoot-out against Greece.

Progressing to Morocco’s senior team, the midfield virtuoso participated in the 2021 AFCON. Additionally, the elegant, industrious midfielder secured a spot in the 26-member squad for the World Cup in Qatar in the year 2022. He teamed up with players like Achraf Hakimi (RB), Sofiane Boufal (CF), Nayef Aguerd, and Noussair Mazraoui to represent their nation with pride.

So far, in Azzedine Ounahi’s Biography, he is a monster on the pitch, so much so that Luis Enrique and Kylian Mbappe’s father lauded his performance. The central midfielder is flooring all goals to get to the top of the French League. And the rest is history, they said.

Sarah Ibriz: Azzedine Ounahi’s Wife?

No matter the short time an athlete has to build his career, he will still have room for love in his heart. And this Casablanca native isn’t an exception. Azzedine sets his heart on no other than Sarah Ibriz.

Who is she? Research shows that Azzedine Ounahi’s wife is also Casablanca-born, and the duo must have met during one of his matches. Further than that, there is no other information about this young lady.

However, the post from her Instagram page suggests they have departed and are no longer married. According to Sarah, she said her marriage to the central midfielder didn’t work out as planned. Fans should fault the baller because he was a good person, and they are not enemies. Here is the video of their wedding.

Personal Life:

Watching the midfielder (Azzedine Ounahi) dynamic plays, you’d think he lives and breathes football 24/7. But remember, everyone needs a break, especially after intense workouts and matches. So, what’s Azzedine up to when he’s not on the pitch?

Vacations are the best getaway for athletes, and the Moroccan player is no exception. As you can see in the image, it could be in any of the fun cities in the world, like Dubai and its beauties, where Azzedine spends his time off work.

It’s clear that Ounahi knows how to relax and have fun off the field. Please keep reading to discover how this Moroccan football star spends his hard-earned money!

Lifestyle:

The Marseille playmaker is entirely reserved in showcasing his lifestyle. He doesn’t parade his riches or post pictures of wealthy homes, timepieces, or attire on social platforms. The Marseille star prefers to keep his personal life understated and humble.

Azzedine Ounahi’s family’s humble origins taught him to value money, which shaped his grounded personality. He remains connected to his beginnings, even staying in touch with friends and family. It’s a testament to the midfielder’s genuine humility and ties to his history.

Azzedine Ounahi Family Life:

The outstanding Moroccan footballer has achieved significant milestones in his career, largely due to the steadfast backing of his household. The following segment will explore the rich details of Azzedine Ounahi’s family background. Let’s dive right in!

About Azzedine Ounahi’s Father:

The renowned Casablanca-born footballer has managed to shield his family life from the public gaze, particularly regarding details about his father. Despite conducting extensive investigations, no significant information has emerged regarding his father, implying a purposeful decision to uphold his privacy.

Although Azzedine Ounahi’s father is seldom discussed, it’s essential to acknowledge that he played a crucial role in bringing his son into the world. While he may not have been a significant presence in the player’s life, his limited time with his middle son held great significance.

About Azzedine Ounahi’s Mother:

Every Parent plays a pivotal role in supporting their children’s pursuit of athletic ambitions. In this Bio, Azzedine Ounahi’s Mother serves as a remarkable example of this dedication.

While our narrative may lack detailed information about the Moroccan-born woman, it is evident that her middle son greatly values her influence. No doubt, Mrs Ounahi likely played a crucial part in offering and instilling values of responsibility and ambition in him. A significant example is when she thanked the King of Morocco and the world for her child’s success.

Azzedine Ounahi’s Mother’s impact on his life and career is unmistakable, as reflected in his unwavering commitment to his football journey. The midfielder’s mom is undoubtedly remarkable, and her role is indispensable when recounting his story.

About Azzedine Ounahi’s Siblings:

Being raised in the same environment will make siblings share memories, experiences, and values. All these, in turn, contribute to the footballer’s strong sense of identity and belonging. Moreover, years of research have shown that siblings offer steadfast love and support, serving as a firm cornerstone for one’s emotional stability.

This support system helps him feel more confident and mentally strong. According to our research, Azzedine Ounahi’s brothers are confirmed to exist, as reported by Aljazeera. The reports reveal that his older and younger siblings are involved in football and play for an amateur club. Looking at these photos, one of his siblings may be in them.

Although the names of Azzedine Ounahi’s brothers have yet to be mentioned anywhere after rigorous studies. And they may not be in the spotlight, but their influence on the midfielder’s life is undeniable.

About Azzedine Ounahi’s Relatives:

Wikipedia confirms that the Marseille star’s cousin is also an athlete. Reda Mahnawi is a professional footballer in one of the leagues in Morocco. In addition, Azzedine Ounahi’s uncle is said to be part of the beautiful, although he is retired.

So, with all the talents that surround the Ligue 1 midfielder, he was sure to leave mouths handing with his extraordinary skills and finesse. Without a single trace of doubt, as the French player is representing his generation, his children would keep the family legacy alive as well.

Untold Facts:

In the final section of Azzedine Ounahi’s Biography, we’ll unveil truths you might not know about him. Without further ado, let’s begin.

Azzedine Ounahi’s Religion:

Wikipedia gives the confirmation that the name “Azzedine” is of Arabic origin, which means high rank, honour and prestige. Moreover, Ounahi’s birthplace is Morocco, and the predominant religion is Shia Muslim.

With all these facts, we can rightly conclude that the midfielder’s religion is Muslim. However, we can not rightly point out if Azzedine belongs to the Shia or Sunni part of Islam.

Azzedine Ounahi’s FIFA Profile:

The incredible prowess of Azzedine Ounahi shines through as the Casablanca native continually delivers remarkable results. This, in turn, earned a commendable 83 potential rating from FIFA. Here’s an insight into the midfielder, highlighting what the athlete is made up of.

Azzedine’s mastery, exemplified by his finesse shots and unwavering dedication to excellence, underscores his standout performance. The midfield talent does incredibly well with his ball control and stamina, similar to Joelington and Enzo Fernandes and stamina. And his dribbling and ball control gives an excellent mark as well.

Azzedine Ounahi’s Tattoos:

Based on the pictures we’ve seen on his Instagram and other online sources, it appears that Azzedine doesn’t have any tattoos. However, we might be missing something since we haven’t seen every part of his body.

Still, according to research, Ounahi has no tattoos, like famous footballers such as Mohammed Salah, the Rising Mostafa Mohammed (CF), Ngolo Kante, and Robert Lewandowski.

End Note:

Azzedine Ounahi was born on the 19th of April 2000 in Casablanca, Morocco. His parents brought him and his two siblings into the world, with the footballer being the middle child.

It is noteworthy to mention that Azzedine Ounahi’s mother played an instrumental role in raising the three children. He chose the football academy rather than a traditional education, dedicating himself to his passion.

This commitment began in the streets of Lalla Meryem and led him to the Mohammed VI Football Academy. The on-field dynamo’s undeniable talent led him to a professional contract with FC Strasbourg in France at 18.

Azzedine’s career has been meteoric, from the fifth tier of the French league with Racing Strasbourg B to achieving great heights in Olympique Marseille.

His impressive performances have solidified his position in club football and made him an integral part of the Moroccan national team, participating in events like the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA World Cup) and Africa Cup of Nations.

On the personal front, Azzedine Ounahi’s wife is Sarah Ibriz, also from Casablanca. However, their relationship took a turn, and they are no longer together, as evidenced by Sarah’s Instagram posts.

Appreciation:

Thank you for exploring our depiction of Azzedine Ounahi’s inspiring life story. Committed to delivering accurate and fair storytelling, our team focuses on the captivating tales of African football. Additionally, we’d love to hear your thoughts on the career trajectory of other fast-rising footballers like Mostafa Mohamed and Ismael Bennacer.

This account, celebrating the athlete who played a pivotal role in Morocco’s remarkable journey at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, is a feature in our comprehensive series on Moroccan football stars.

Please let us know in the comments if you find any discrepancies in this recount of the Casablanca sensation.