Zakaria Labyad Set for Gulf Move After Sporting Lisbon Exit
Morocco international Zakaria Labyad is poised to continue his career in the Gulf region after a troubled spell at Sporting Lisbon.
The 22-year-old midfielder, once seen as a major prospect upon his 2012 arrival from PSV Eindhoven, has found himself without a club following his departure from the Portuguese side. With the European transfer window now closed, his options are limited to leagues that remain open—particularly in the Middle East.
According to Portuguese outlet ZeroZero, relayed by mountakhab.net, Labyad recently turned down an offer from Bani Yas, reportedly due to doubts about the Emirati club’s sporting ambitions.
Sporting, seeking to offload his high wages—reportedly around €2 million gross per season—is said to be negotiating a loan move to a Qatari club, as reported by L’Équipe.
Labyad previously spent 18 months on loan at Vitesse Arnhem, where he showed flashes of the talent that once made him a coveted signing. However, disputes over a wage reduction led to a breakdown in relations with Sporting.
A move to the Gulf could provide the attacking midfielder with a fresh start and regular playing time.
