The Guardian has named Morocco international Abdellah Ouazane among the 60 most promising young players in the world born in 2009.
The Ajax Amsterdam midfielder was included in the British newspaper’s selection because of his technical ability, composure under pressure and skill in tight areas.
Nabil Baha, who previously coached Ouazane with Morocco Under-17s, discussed the teenager’s development, qualities and recent call-up to the senior national team by Mohamed Ouahbi in an interview with Africafoot.
Baha believes Ouazane’s understanding of the game is particularly advanced for his age. He considers the midfielder’s ability to make the right decisions one of his greatest strengths and says it is a significant asset at Ajax Amsterdam.
Ouazane’s name was also linked with Real Madrid during the summer of 2025, an indication of the interest generated by his potential among leading European clubs.
Technical qualities and tactical discipline
Baha also highlighted Ouazane’s tactical discipline, which he partly attributes to his development in the Ajax academy.
The former Morocco Under-17s coach said the midfielder generally plays with simplicity and effectiveness. Rather than attempting unnecessary tricks, Ouazane looks for the option that best suits the situation and the needs of his team.
Baha also praised his confidence and willingness to take risks, including in difficult matches. He believes Ouazane has the qualities to help organise play and connect the different areas of the team.
Another notable feature of his game is his comfort using both feet. According to Baha, that versatility allows Ouazane to vary his passing, dribbling and changes of direction while retaining control of the ball when opponents apply pressure.
The midfielder is also able to identify spaces between the opposition’s midfield and defence and play through balls that can put team-mates in scoring positions.
Baha believes Ouazane can still become more influential in attack, particularly by carrying the ball forward and attempting more shots from distance. He pointed to the teenager’s performances for Morocco’s youth teams, including at the Africa Cup of Nations Under-17s, where Ouazane was named the tournament’s best player.
Senior call-up offers chance to develop
Baha described Ouazane’s selection for Morocco’s senior side by Mohamed Ouahbi as a “courageous and well-considered” decision.
He said the call-up would allow the young midfielder to experience the demands of the highest level and work alongside more experienced players. Baha added that introducing young talents to the national team early can accelerate their technical and tactical development, provided they are given time to adapt to their increased responsibilities.
In his view, the selection rewards Ouazane’s performances for Morocco’s youth sides and sends a positive message to other emerging players. It also demonstrates that hard work and performances can lead to senior international football regardless of age.
Baha’s advice to Ouazane
Baha believes Ouazane must continue improving his decision-making and effectiveness in the final third. He also warned him not to become distracted by media attention, speculation about his future or reports linking him with major European clubs.
The former coach advised him to remain focused on his daily work and development, while continuing to understand the importance of defensive duties in modern football.
Ajax are due to face NEC Nijmegen in their eighth league match in the Netherlands. The listed odds are 1.27 for an Ajax win, 5.40 for a draw and 6.30 for a NEC Nijmegen victory.