Achraf Dari was considered by FC Zurich during the winter transfer window but the Swiss club ultimately decided to pursue a different defensive option.
The Moroccan centre-back had been linked with several clubs in Switzerland in recent weeks, with reports suggesting interest from FC Zurich, Lugano and Young Boys.
Outside Switzerland, Saint-Étienne were also said to be monitoring the former Wydad Casablanca defender as speculation grew over his next move.
Amid the growing rumours, FC Zurich have now clarified their stance on the player. Speaking to Le Site info Sport, the club’s head of recruitment, Thomas Bickel, confirmed that Dari had been assessed as part of their recruitment process but was not the final choice.
“We analyzed Achraf Dari as an option and the feedback about him was positive. However, we ultimately chose to recruit another central defender,” he explained.
The statement brings clarity to why discussions did not progress further, despite the player being viewed favourably during the evaluation phase.
Zurich’s decision reflects a strategic choice rather than any concerns about the defender’s ability, with the club opting to strengthen their squad in a different direction.
Dari’s situation has drawn attention in recent months following his reduced role at Al Ahly. His father has previously stated that the defender is keen to return to European football after being left out of the Egyptian club’s coach’s plans.
That desire has fuelled transfer speculation, particularly during the winter window, as clubs explored potential defensive reinforcements.
The interest from multiple sides highlights Dari’s continued appeal on the market, even as his immediate future remains unresolved.
At international level, the Moroccan defender retains a strong reputation, shaped by his time at Wydad Casablanca and his subsequent move abroad.
With the winter window now closed for several leagues, uncertainty surrounds the next step in Dari’s career.
While FC Zurich have ruled out a move for now, other clubs remain attentive to his situation, and a change could still materialise should the right opportunity arise.
For Achraf Dari, the coming period is likely to be decisive. As he seeks a return to regular football in Europe, his priority remains finding a club where he can re-establish himself and revive his career after a challenging spell away from the spotlight.
