Al Ain have agreed in principle to release Moroccan midfielder Mehdi Moubarik on a free transfer to Wydad Casablanca, contingent on the player’s approval of the move.
The Emirati club, with which Moubarik still has time remaining on his contract, have reportedly offered to terminate his deal without insisting on a transfer fee.
The offer follows Wydad’s recent facilitation of Nassim Chadli’s move to Al Ain—a gesture that strengthened relations between the two clubs and prompted mutual goodwill.
Reciprocal goodwill between clubs
According to our sources, Al Ain’s proposal is an acknowledgement of the positive relationship that now exists between the two clubs.
This stems from the seamless transfer of Chadli to the UAE side, and is being reciprocated by allowing Moubarik to return to Morocco without financial burden for Wydad.
“Al Ain encouraged the decision by seeing this as a form of recognition to Wydad’s gesture,” explained a club insider.
Player’s decision is key
Despite Al Ain’s readiness to free him, the transfer hinges entirely on Moubarik’s willingness to move. Having emerged from FUS Rabat’s academy and joined Al Ain to broaden his international experience, he now faces the decision of choosing between remaining in the UAE or returning home.
If he accepts Wydad’s proposal, he would join a side preparing for an ambitious continental campaign—one that aligns with his ambitions to regain regular playing time and compete at a high level.
Proven performance at Wydad
Moubarik previously featured for Wydad during the current season, making 22 appearances across all competitions.
While he didn’t score, his contributions were notable: providing defensive cover, orchestrating transitions and helping structure the midfield. Supporters and coaches lauded his energy and intelligence on the pitch.
Wydad’s technical staff are reportedly eager to secure him permanently. Reinforcing their squad with a midfielder of Moubarik’s profile would bolster their domestic and continental ambitions—particularly ahead of key fixtures in the CAF Champions League.
Looking ahead
The next chapter in Moubarik’s career will depend on whether he consents to personal terms and a sporting project that aligns with his objectives.
Should he agree to return, he would rejoin a well-known environment and become a central figure in Wydad’s drive for trophies.
For Al Ain, granting Moubarik his preferred move will reflect a broader understanding of player welfare and mutual respect between clubs. It also underlines an evolving trend in regional transfers, where maintaining harmonious player pathways can foster stronger inter-club relationships.
Final confirmation of his transfer is expected once Moubarik gives his official consent. Until then, all eyes remain on the midfielder as he contemplates a move that could simultaneously revive his career and support Wydad’s aspirations in Morocco and beyond.
