Raja Casablanca target Moroccan winger El Mahraoui after difficult spell in Russia

Raja Casablanca have identified Moroccan winger Anas El Mahraoui as one of their priority targets for the summer transfer window, with head coach Nasreddine Nabi determined to bring the attacker back to the Botola Pro despite his disappointing spell in Russia.

The Raja boss is reportedly convinced the 22-year-old has the talent to strengthen his attacking options and believes a return to Moroccan football could help the winger rediscover the form that first earned him a move abroad.

Russian move failed to deliver

El Mahraoui joined Russian club Akhmat Grozny from Meknes in the summer of 2025 in a deal reportedly worth €600,000, signing a four-year contract.

However, he struggled to establish himself and quickly fell out of the club’s plans.

In February 2026, he was loaned to fellow Russian side Orenburg in search of regular playing time, but the move failed to revive his fortunes.

The winger made just eight appearances during his loan spell—six in the Russian Premier League and two in the Russian Cup—accumulating only 191 minutes on the pitch without scoring or providing an assist. He returned to Akhmat Grozny after his loan expired on 30 June 2026.

Nabi sees opportunity

Despite those underwhelming statistics, Nabi remains confident that El Mahraoui can make a significant impact if he returns to Morocco.

The Raja coach believes the winger’s technical ability has not disappeared and sees the current situation as an opportunity to add a player capable of improving the club’s attacking play.

El Mahraoui earned widespread praise during his time at Meknes, where his performances attracted interest from several Moroccan and Arab clubs before his transfer to Russia.

Transfer talks expected to continue

With the player’s long-term future at Akhmat Grozny still uncertain, Raja are hoping to take advantage of the situation and secure his signature during the current transfer window.

The coming days are expected to be decisive as the Casablanca giants attempt to complete a deal that could offer El Mahraoui the chance to rebuild his career and return to the level that made him one of Morocco’s most promising young wingers.