Morocco’s U17 hero Chouaib Bellaarouch moves to France with Stade de Reims

Moroccan goalkeeper Chouaib Bellaarouch has joined French club Stade de Reims from the Mohammed VI Football Academy, taking the next step in his development after a standout campaign with Morocco’s youth teams.

The 18-year-old has completed his medical and signed a long-term contract with the French club, according to Moroccan broadcaster SNRT.

The move is Bellaarouch’s first experience in European football and gives one of Morocco’s most promising young goalkeepers the opportunity to continue his development in France.

Penalty hero during Morocco’s historic title run

Bellaarouch rose to prominence during Morocco’s successful 2025 Africa U-17 Cup of Nations campaign.

The Casablanca-born goalkeeper played a crucial role in the Atlas Cubs’ run to the title, particularly during the knockout stages.

In the semi-final against Ivory Coast, Bellaarouch saved three penalties in the shootout to send Morocco through to the final.

He was again decisive against Mali in the final after the match ended 0-0 in normal time, saving two penalties as Morocco won the shootout 4-2.

His display earned him the Player of the Match award and further established his reputation as a goalkeeper capable of performing under pressure.

Another product of Mohammed VI Academy

Bellaarouch’s emergence is another example of the Mohammed VI Football Academy’s role in developing Moroccan talent for the international stage.

Born in Casablanca in 2008, he spent his formative years at the academy in Salé, where he was scouted, trained and educated.

He also represented Morocco at the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup and impressed at the U19 International Tournament, where he saved three penalties against Leeds United and received goalkeeper MVP recognition.

His performances at youth level eventually attracted interest from Europe, leading to his move to Stade de Reims.

Bellaarouch begins French adventure

The young goalkeeper is expected to wear the number 40 shirt at Reims and initially join the club’s Reims Révélations structure, which is designed to develop young players and prepare them for senior football.

His immediate task will be to adapt to the French game while continuing to improve his technical and physical qualities.

The move also offers Bellaarouch a pathway towards professional football in Europe, where he will be competing for opportunities within the Reims system.

For Morocco, his development will be closely followed after his impressive performances helped deliver a historic African youth title.

Bellaarouch now has the chance to build on that success in France and turn his achievements with the Mohammed VI Academy and Morocco’s youth teams into the foundations of a professional European career.