Zakaria El Ouahdi is leaving KRC Genk. The Moroccan international will continue his career in the Bundesliga with historic German club Hamburger SV.
El Ouahdi arrived at the Cegeka Arena in the summer of 2023 and, over the course of three years, developed into a firm fan favourite among the Genk faithful. With his tireless runs down the flank and attacking drive, he quickly made his mark on Genk’s style of play.
El Ouahdi also made great strides on the international stage during his time at the club. He won the U23 Africa Cup of Nations with Morocco and claimed bronze at the Olympic Games in Paris. Last summer, he made his World Cup debut for the senior Atlas Lions.
At KRC Genk, El Ouahdi stood out not only for his numbers, but above all for his mentality. He gave everything every time he stepped onto the pitch, playing with courage, passion and total commitment. Qualities that quickly earned him the appreciation of the supporters at the Cegeka Arena. Last season, the fans voted him the winner of the OSV Golden Shoe. He also claimed the Ebony Shoe, awarded to the best player of African descent in the Belgian league.
KRC Genk would like to thank Zakaria for his commitment, energy and passion in blue and white, and wishes him every success at Hamburger SV and for the next chapter of his career.
“Genk will always have a place in my heart”
The final word goes to Zakaria himself:
“After all these years, the time has come to say goodbye. It’s not easy, because Genk has become so much more than just a club to me. This is where I was given my opportunity, where I grew both as a player and as a person, and where I experienced moments I will never forget.
I want to thank my teammates, the staff and the management for their trust and for everything we experienced together. Above all, I want to thank the supporters and every Genkie who has backed me from day one. Your support, your passion and your love for this club are things I will always carry with me.
I tried to give everything for this shirt and these colours every time I stepped onto the pitch. A new chapter now begins for me, but I leave with enormous respect, gratitude and so many great memories.
Genk will always have a special place in my heart. Once a Genkie, always a Genkie."
Thank you for everything,
Zaka.