Azzedine Ounahi Emerges as a Barcelona Target
FC Barcelona continues to evaluate options to strengthen its midfield following the injury to Frenkie de Jong, who is expected to be sidelined for three to six months with a knee problem. As the club searches for solutions, a new name has entered the Blaugrana radar: Azzedine Ounahi.
According to Spanish TV program El Chiringuito, the Girona midfielder is one of the players being monitored by Barcelona's sporting department as a potential replacement for the Dutch international.
The interest comes just days after Leon Goretzka also emerged as one of the midfielders under consideration to reinforce the squad.
Ounahi's Stock Continues to Rise
After enjoying an impressive season with Girona, Azzedine Ounahi further increased his value thanks to an outstanding performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Morocco.
The midfielder was one of the standout performers for the Atlas Lions throughout the tournament, showcasing his ability to carry the ball forward, break defensive lines with his dribbling, and combine effectively in tight spaces—qualities that have once again attracted the attention of several European clubs.
In recent weeks, Ounahi has also been linked with Ajax, although the Moroccan international has yet to make a final decision regarding his future.
How Could He Help Barcelona?
From a tactical perspective, Ounahi offers many of the qualities Hansi Flick looks for in his central midfielders.
He is a dynamic player with excellent mobility, capable of receiving the ball under pressure, driving forward through midfield, and beating opponents with quick changes of pace. He also excels at linking midfield with attack while maintaining fluid ball circulation.
Rather than being a traditional holding midfielder, Ounahi thrives between the lines, accelerating transitions and constantly contributing to attacking build-up play.
Those characteristics could help Barcelona compensate for the absence of Frenkie de Jong, particularly in ball progression and moving possession through midfield.
Ounahi or Goretzka?
Although both players have been linked with Barcelona, they offer very different profiles.
Leon Goretzka stands out for his physical presence, aerial ability, box-to-box running, and knack for arriving in the penalty area to score goals. His experience and athleticism make him a dominant midfielder both defensively and offensively.
By contrast, Azzedine Ounahi brings greater creativity, mobility, and ball-carrying ability. His game is centered on controlling possession, creating space, and breaking defensive lines with intelligent movement and technical quality, attributes that naturally fit a team built around ball control.
For now, FC Barcelona continues to assess the available options on the transfer market. The priority remains finding the right player to cover the absence of Frenkie de Jong, and after his outstanding World Cup and strong performances in LaLiga, Azzedine Ounahi has become one of the names gaining the most momentum inside the club's offices.
