The first Moroccan-born player to feature for FC Barcelona’s first team, Abde Ezzalzouli established his professional presence in the Spanish league system during the early 2020s. His trajectory moved from youth academies in Elche to securing significant roles at major clubs, eventually becoming a critical figure in both the Moroccan national setup and his European side, Real Betis.
Early Development in Spain
Born in Beni Mellal, Morocco, in 2001, Ezzalzouli relocated to Spain with his family at age seven. He developed his early footballing skills in the Carrús neighborhood of Elche. Despite trailing for his hometown club, Elche CF, he was not selected. He subsequently found an opening in the Alicante area with Hércules B, starting his senior career there in 2019.
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Ezzalzouli signed with Barcelona B in August 2021. His top-tier debut occurred on 30 October 2021, during a draw against Alavés. Following a loan spell at Osasuna, where he helped the team reach the 2022–23 Copa del Rey final, he transferred to Real Betis in 2023 for a reported fee of €7.5 million. At Betis, he contributed to the club's 2024–25 UEFA Conference League campaign, scoring in the semi-final against Fiorentina to help secure the team's first appearance in a UEFA competition final.
International Representation
After representing Morocco at the under-20 level, Ezzalzouli made his senior international debut in 2022. He captained the Morocco under-23 team to victory at the 2023 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations, finishing as the tournament's top scorer. His career includes appearances at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the 2024 Summer Olympics, and selections for the Africa Cup of Nations squads in 2023, 2025, and the 2026 World Cup squad.
Fast facts
- Born: 17 December 2001, Beni Mellal
- Citizenship: Spain and Morocco
- Professional debut: 30 October 2021
- Major transfer: Real Betis, 2023
- Officer of the Order of the Throne: 2022
- 2023 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations winner
Questions readers ask
What is Ezzalzouli's international status?
He is a Moroccan international who holds dual Spanish and Moroccan citizenship.
Has Ezzalzouli played for Barcelona?
Yes, he signed for Barcelona B in 2021 and made several appearances for the first team before moving to Real Betis.
