Zakaria El Ouahdi (22) has extended his contract with KRC Genk until 2028. The likable player from Hoboken arrived in Genk in the summer of 2023, and his career has been on a steep upward trajectory ever since. His impressive performances have earned him a contract extension at the Cegeka Arena.
In the summer of 2023, El Ouahdi made the move from RWDM to KRC Genk. In the previous season, he had already been one of the driving forces behind RWDM's title in the Challenger Pro League. During his first season at KRC Genk, he was given time to develop, initially playing in the shadow of Daniël Muñoz. After the departure of the energetic Colombian, Zaka seamlessly stepped into his role during the second half of the season. Known for his exceptional stamina and relentless forward drive, El Ouahdi has since become a key player at the Cegeka Arena.
The Moroccan "marathon man" also became U23 African champion with the national team and, alongside Bilal El Khannouss, earned an impressive bronze medal at the recent Olympic Games. He has since been called up to Morocco's senior national team. His rapid rise has not gone unnoticed internationally either. Despite concrete interest from the Portuguese top club Benfica, El Ouahdi remained loyal to KRC Genk. This loyalty has now earned him a contract extension with the blue and white.
The entire Genk family wishes Zaka all the best for the rest of the season.