Nordin Amrabat began his professional football career after being released from the Ajax youth academy at age thirteen due to Osgood Schlatter disease. While studying for a career in management and working odd jobs including cleaning and dishwashing, he pursued amateur football before signing with Omniworld, marking the start of a journey that spanned multiple leagues across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Early Development and Breakthrough
Born on 31 March 1987 in Naarden, Amrabat returned to football at SV Huizen. After scoring 14 goals for Almere's Omniworld, he joined Eredivisie club VVV in 2007, where he netted ten times. His performance attracted PSV Eindhoven, who signed him for €2 million in 2008. During three seasons at the Philips Stadion, he participated in the UEFA Champions League and secured the 2008 Johan Cruyff Shield before moving to the Turkish club Kayserispor.
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In 2012, Amrabat signed a five-year contract with Galatasaray for €8.6 million. He debuted in the 2012 Turkish Super Cup win and helped the club win the 2012–13 Süper Lig. By January 2014, he moved to Málaga on loan, later joining the Spanish club permanently for €3.5 million. His time in Spain included a controversial red card against Villarreal for gesturing that the referee required glasses.
Global Career Path
Amrabat joined the Premier League side Watford in 2016 for £6.1 million, later spending a season on loan at Leganés. In 2018, he transitioned to the Saudi Pro League with Al-Nassr, winning the 2018–19 league title and finishing as the season's top assist provider. His later career included a two-year stint at AEK Athens, a return to England with Hull City in 2025, and a move to Wydad in May 2025 to prepare for the FIFA Club World Cup.
International Representation
After considering an Olympic career with the Netherlands, Amrabat committed to Morocco in 2011. He represented the Atlas Lions at the 2012 Olympics and the 2018 FIFA World Cup. His participation in the 2018 tournament drew criticism when he played against Portugal shortly after suffering a concussion during the match against Iran. He also represented Morocco in two Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
Fast facts
- Born: 31 March 1987, Naarden
- Citizenship: Morocco, Netherlands
- Professional debut: Omniworld
- Religion: Islam
- Al-Nassr 2018-19 season: League title and top assist provider
- International debut: 11 November 2011, against Uganda
- Brother: Sofyan Amrabat
- Languages: Dutch
Questions readers ask
Which major clubs did Nordin Amrabat play for in Turkey?
He played for Kayserispor and Galatasaray.
Did Nordin Amrabat represent Morocco at the FIFA World Cup?
Yes, he was part of the 2018 Morocco squad in Russia and started all three group stage matches.
