Nour Zarkane: Moroccan defender joins Emirates Club from Al-Dhaid

Moroccan centre-back Nour Zarkane has joined Emirates Club from Al-Dhaid, strengthening the UAE sides defensive options ahead of the new campaign. The 22-year-old, who stands at 1.90m, arrives after a spell with the Sharjah-based club and has already gained experience in both Moroccan and Emirati football.

Zarkane moves across the Emirates after spending the 202526 season with Al-Dhaid, having previously been on the books of Al-Wasl SCs U23 side. His switch to Emirates Club continues a rapid rise since leaving Morocco for Gulf football, following his early development in his homeland.

Born in Berrechid on 11 November 2003, Zarkane first emerged in the youth ranks of Raja Casablanca, progressing from the U19s into the clubs reserve side in 2022. He earned his first senior minutes in the Moroccan top flight later that year when he joined Difaa El Jadida, where he featured in the Botola Pro Inwi and the Coupe du Trone.

During his time in Morocco, the defender made 18 league appearances and added further minutes in domestic cup competition, underlining his ability to handle regular first-team football at a young age. That platform paved the way for his move to the UAE, where he has already appeared in both the UAE Presidents Cup and the UAE League Cup.

Zarkane now links up with Emirates Club as a specialist centre-back, adding height and top-flight experience to their back line as he completes his move from Al-Dhaid.