Morocco’s Abde Ezzalzouli set to stay at Betis as Roma move collapses

Morocco international Abdel Samad Ezzalzouli will remain at Real Betis this season after speculation linking him with a move to Italian side Roma was dismissed by his agent.

Reports in recent weeks had suggested that Roma were interested in signing the 24-year-old winger during the summer transfer window, but the player’s representatives insist that his future lies in Spain.

Ezzalzouli, whose contract with Betis runs until 2029, is expected to play a key role for the Andalusian club as they prepare for a Champions League campaign next season.

Agent dismisses Roma links

The player’s agent, Alejandro Camaño, rejected claims that negotiations had taken place with the Serie A side.

“The player’s decision has already been made, Zalzouli will stay in Spain, and there was nothing with Roma.”

According to Spanish newspaper Sport, Roma were unwilling to meet Betis’ valuation of the Moroccan international, with the club reportedly refusing to entertain offers below 50 million euros.

That figure is close to the 60-million-euro release clause included in Zalzouli’s contract.

Barcelona denied financial boost

Barcelona had been closely monitoring developments surrounding the winger’s future after retaining a percentage of any future transfer when they sold him in 2023.

Sport reported that the Catalan giants could have earned between 10 and 15 million euros had a deal with Roma been completed.

However, with Zalzouli now expected to remain at Betis, Barcelona are unlikely to receive any immediate financial benefit.

A breakthrough campaign cut short

The 2025-26 season proved to be the most productive of Zalzouli’s career.

The Moroccan winger made 43 appearances in all competitions, scoring 15 goals and providing 13 assists as he established himself as one of Betis’ standout performers.

His campaign, however, ended in disappointment after a knee ligament injury ruled him out of the 2026 World Cup. The injury occurred during Morocco’s friendly against Norway just days before the tournament began.

Despite that setback, Zalzouli is expected to be a central figure for Betis next season as the club prepares to compete among Europe’s elite in the Champions League.