Moroccan starlet Moncef Zekri is on the verge of signing his first professional contract with Ajax Amsterdam, capping off a breakout year for the highly-rated left-back.
Zekri, 16, caught the eye of European scouts during Morocco’s historic triumph at the U17 Africa Cup of Nations, where the Atlas Cubs clinched their first title after beating Mali on penalties. The youngster played every minute of the tournament and was named in CAF’s Team of the Tournament.
According to Dutch outlet Voetbal International, Zekri has opted for Ajax despite serious interest from Bayer Leverkusen and the chance to stay with his current club KV Mechelen. Sources close to Zekri say Ajax’s reputation for nurturing young talent and its Moroccan presence tilted the decision.
Moncef Zekri (16) on his way to Ajax, reports @VI_nl
The 16-year-old Moncef Zekri, winner of the U17 Africa Cup of Nations with Morocco, wants to continue his career at Ajax. The talented left-back could have also chosen Bayer Leverkusen or signed a professional contract with… pic.twitter.com/vQrKOB6XMG
— 𝗠𝗩𝗡_𝗘𝗡 | 🇲🇦 𝗙𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗯𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀 (@MVN_EN) May 3, 2025
Zekri is expected to join Ajax on a free transfer as he is not currently under a professional contract.
The U17 Africa Cup of Nations, held in Morocco from March 30 to April 19, attracted scouts from across the footballing world. According to CAF, over 200 club representatives attended matches, including scouts from Manchester United, Liverpool, Bayern Munich and Chelsea.
Morocco’s title run put the spotlight on several young talents, five of whom, including Zekri, were named in the tournament’s Best XI.
The final, played against Mali, ended goalless in regular time, before Morocco held their nerve to win 4-2 on penalties. Goalkeeper Chouaib Belaarouch made two crucial saves, securing a historic first African trophy for the Atlas Cubs.
