Wydad Casablanca has officially announced the arrival of three high-profile players as the club accelerates preparations for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
While speculation surrounding a sensational move for Cristiano Ronaldo continues to generate headlines, the Moroccan giants are focused on solidifying their squad with experienced talent.
The club revealed on Saturday, 24 May, that Moroccan international Nordin Amrabat has joined the ranks.
The 38-year-old winger, capped 64 times for Morocco, embarks on his first professional stint in the country.
With a career that has taken him to Galatasaray, Watford, and AEK Athens, Amrabat is expected to bring invaluable experience and leadership to the dressing room.
🚨🗞️✍️ 𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆: Wydad Athletic Club Officially Announced Two Anticipated Signings Yesterday Night. 🔥🥶🇲🇦🎯😎, Nordin Amrabat and Stephane Aziz Ki. pic.twitter.com/SLlZqkxxWG
— Ayabonga Mthembu (@AyabongaMthemb_) May 25, 2025
Also confirmed is the signing of Hamza Hannouri, the 27-year-old attacking midfielder from FUS Rabat.
Known for his creativity and eye for goal, Hannouri has netted 26 goals over the past three Botola seasons, earning a reputation as one of the domestic league’s most consistent performers.
Burkinabé midfielder Stéphane Aziz Ki, aged 28, rounds out the trio of new arrivals.
The dynamic playmaker arrives from Tanzanian side Young Africans, where he enjoyed a standout season as the league’s top scorer with 21 goals.
His box-to-box energy and attacking flair are seen as key assets to reinforce Wydad’s midfield.
In addition to these signings, Wydad is assessing Senegalese international defender Pape Abou Cissé, currently on trial with the squad.
Le joueur va passer un test avec le club https://t.co/IdZTvkHx4l
— Wydad Time 🇲🇦🇵🇸🔴 (@WydadTime) May 24, 2025
The 29-year-old, under contract with Al-Shamal SC in Qatar, previously featured for Olympiakos and Saint-Étienne.
His future with the club hinges on the outcome of medical and fitness evaluations underway in Casablanca.
A familiar face could also be set to return. Yahya Jabrane, the former Wydad captain, is expected to rejoin the club after a stint with Kuwait SC.
Hes back 🥹 https://t.co/eKzmo0qPz4
— Wydad Time 🇲🇦🇵🇸🔴 (@WydadTime) May 24, 2025
The 32-year-old defensive midfielder, who played 219 matches and scored over 30 goals during his previous spell, is viewed as a natural leader and a critical reinforcement ahead of the high-stakes tournament in the United States.
At the managerial helm, Mohamed Amine Benhachem has taken over following the dismissal of Rulani Mokwena.
A former Wydad player and previous interim manager, Benhachem steps into the top role just weeks before WAC’s appearance at the Club World Cup, where they are drawn into Group G alongside Manchester City, Juventus, and Al Ain SC.
While hopes of landing Cristiano Ronaldo on a short-term deal remain unlikely, the club’s reported €15 million offer has sparked widespread intrigue.
However, Wydad’s financial limitations may pose a significant barrier.
For now, their recruitment drive continues with a clear intent: building a squad capable of competing on the global stage.
