Genk's Moroccan international right-back Zakaria El Ouahdi has been awarded the Ebony Shoe, the prize given to the best African or African-origin player in Belgium's Jupiler Pro League. The 23-year-old defender saw off competition from Union Saint-Gilloise's Adem Zorgane, Club Brugge's Raphael Onyedika, Union's Promise David, and Sporting Charleroi's Parfait Guiagon to claim the honour, succeeding last year's winner Kevin Denkey.
El Ouahdi becomes the third Moroccan international to win the award, following in the footsteps of Mbark Boussoufa, a three-time winner, and Tarik Tissoudali, who claimed the prize in 2022. Despite a season disrupted by several injuries, El Ouahdi has produced impressive attacking numbers from full-back, registering 12 goals and providing five assists for Genk. His form earned him a first senior call-up to the Moroccan national team in the last international window under new coach Mohamed Ouahbi.
The award, often a springboard for transfers to larger European leagues, has intensified the spotlight on El Ouahdi's future. According to reports in the Belgian press, his performances have attracted significant scouting attention, with clubs from Europe's top five leagues monitoring his situation. While no formal offers have been confirmed by Genk, the club is understood to be braced for interest in their prized asset during the upcoming summer transfer window.
For Genk, a club with a proven track record of developing and selling talent, El Ouahdi represents another major asset. His progression from the club's youth academy to a key first-team player and now award winner follows a familiar pathway. The potential departure of a player of his calibre would command a substantial fee, funds that would likely be reinvested into the squad, as is the club's model.
For El Ouahdi, the award and national team call-up solidify his status as one of the most promising African defenders in European football. A move to a more prominent league would be the logical next step in his career, offering a higher platform to challenge established Moroccan right-back Achraf Hakimi for the national team spot. His blend of defensive solidity and a direct goal threat from wide areas makes him a profile in high demand across the continent.
The immediate focus for the player remains on finishing the season strongly with Genk, who are competing for European qualification. However, the recognition of the Ebony Shoe ensures his name will feature prominently in transfer discussions as the campaign concludes, with a consequential summer ahead for both the player and his club.
