Hamburger SV sign Morocco right-back Zakaria El Ouahdi for Bundesliga return

Zakaria El Ouahdi has officially joined Hamburger SV, with the 24-year-old Morocco right-back leaving KRC Genk to begin his first season outside Belgium in the Bundesliga.

The move ends the uncertainty surrounding the former PSV prospect, who has agreed to continue his career in Germany after establishing himself as an important player for Genk.

Hamburger SV are expected to pay an initial €8m for El Ouahdi. The total value of the transfer could rise to €12m if performance-related bonuses are met, while Genk have also negotiated a percentage of any future sale.

El Ouahdi will wear the number seven shirt at his new club. He will also be reunited with two players familiar from his time in Belgium, Sebastiaan Bornauw and Albert Sambi Lokonga, who are already part of the Hamburger SV squad.

The transfer represents a significant step in a career that began in the Belgian football system. El Ouahdi came through the youth academies of Beerschot, Antwerp, Zulte Waregem and Berchem Sport before making his senior debut with Rupel Boom.

He later played for RWDM and moved to KRC Genk at the beginning of 2024. The right-back quickly became a regular starter and went on to make 116 appearances for the club.

During that spell, El Ouahdi made a notable attacking contribution from defence, scoring 20 goals and providing 13 assists. His performances at club level also earned him recognition from the Morocco national team.

His move to Hamburger SV now gives him the opportunity to test himself in one of Europe’s major leagues for the first time. It also comes as the German club compete in the Bundesliga for a second successive season.

Hamburger SV began the new campaign with a 2-0 defeat by Dortmund. El Ouahdi’s arrival adds another option to the squad as the club continue their Bundesliga campaign.

For Genk, the departure brings an end to El Ouahdi’s time at the club after he became an established figure in their side. For the player, the transfer marks a new stage following his development through several Belgian academies and senior clubs.

The agreement’s structure means Genk could benefit further if El Ouahdi is sold in the future, in addition to the guaranteed initial fee and the potential bonus payments included in the deal.