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Rabat – Morocco international Azzedine Ounahi has reportedly turned down approaches from Villarreal and Real Sociedad as he remains fully focused on the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, the midfielder does not want transfer talks to distract him during Morocco’s tournament campaign.
Ounahi reportedly plans to study his options only after the Atlas Lions’ World Cup journey comes to an end.
The 26-year-old remains under contract with Girona until June 2030, but his future has become uncertain following the club’s relegation to Spain’s second division.
Ounahi is believed to prefer remaining in La Liga rather than playing in the second tier next season.
Several spanish clubs interested
Villarreal and Real Sociedad are not the only clubs linked with the Moroccan midfielder.
Celta Vigo and Real Betis have also reportedly shown interest after Ounahi emerged as one of Girona’s leading players during a difficult season.
Celta have identified him as a possible midfield option, particularly if they complete the sale of Ilaix Moriba.
Ounahi’s ability to carry the ball, escape pressure and create attacks from central areas makes him attractive to clubs looking for a technically strong midfielder.
He can operate as a central midfielder, an attacking number eight or in a wider role when required.
His performances for Morocco at the World Cup could also increase interest in his services before the transfer window closes.
However, the player is not expected to make an immediate decision.
His priority remains Morocco’s campaign, with all negotiations likely to wait until his international commitments are completed.
Uncertainty over ounahi’s price
Reports differ over the amount Girona could demand for the midfielder.
Mundo Deportivo reported that Ounahi’s release clause remains €25 million despite the club’s relegation.
However, other Spanish reports have suggested that the clause may have fallen to €10 million following Girona’s drop to the second division.
Girona may therefore have to negotiate a transfer rather than insist on the higher figure.
The club are reportedly aware that Ounahi could leave for less than €20 million, particularly if the player makes clear that he wants to remain in the top flight.
His long-term contract gives Girona a strong position, but relegation could make it difficult to keep one of their most valuable players.
For now, however, the Moroccan has placed those discussions aside.
His next club could depend partly on his World Cup performances, but Ounahi’s immediate objective is helping Morocco progress as far as possible before deciding where he will play next season.
