Morocco’s Walid Cheddira set for La Liga move with Espanyol

Moroccan international Walid Cheddira is poised to make his debut in La Liga, joining Espanyol Barcelona on loan for the 2024/25 season. The 26-year-old striker, who was part of Morocco’s historic run to the semi-finals at the 2022 World Cup, is expected to bolster Espanyol’s attacking options as they seek to bounce back from a disappointing start to their league campaign.

Cheddira spent the previous season on loan with Frosinone in Serie A, where he made 36 appearances and scored seven goals.

Despite a respectable showing in Italy’s top tier, he returns to Napoli this summer only to find himself surplus to requirements under new coach Antonio Conte.

As a result, the Naples club has opted to send the forward out on loan again, this time to Espanyol, with no purchase option attached to the deal.

Cheddira remains under contract with Napoli until 2028 but has yet to feature in an official match for the club since his move from Bari.

During his time with Bari in Serie B, the Moroccan forward showcased his goal-scoring prowess, netting 17 goals in 31 matches during the 2022/23 season.

His performances in Italy earned him international recognition and a place in Morocco’s squad for the World Cup in Qatar.

Though his tournament form was criticized after missing a crucial chance during Morocco’s semi-final run, Cheddira remains a versatile forward with the ability to create space, win aerial duels, and work tirelessly for his team.

These attributes make him an intriguing addition to an Espanyol side looking to recover from an opening day loss to Valladolid.

Espanyol, promoted to La Liga this season, will hope Cheddira can provide the firepower needed to ensure their survival in the Spanish top flight.

The club endured a tough start to their campaign with a 1-0 defeat to Valladolid on August 20.

The arrival of Cheddira brings added depth to their squad as they seek to improve their fortunes in the highly competitive league.

As Cheddira embarks on a new chapter in Spain, the forward will be looking to prove his doubters wrong and cement his place as a key player for Espanyol, with his eye on a permanent spot in Napoli’s squad once his loan spell concludes.