The Association de la Jeunesse Auxerroise (AJ Auxerre) officially announced this Friday the loan signing of Moroccan international Oussama El Azzouzi for the 2025–2026 season. The announcement confirms the agreement reached between the two clubs several days ago. Joining from Bologna, the 24-year-old defensive midfielder will compete in Ligue 1 on a loan deal without a purchase option. The club welcomed the arrival of the Atlas Lion, highlighting that he will bring «his experience and fighting spirit to Christophe Pélissier's squad». El Azzouzi began his career in the Netherlands but made a name for himself in Belgium. With Union Saint-Gilloise, he featured in 34 matches, including seven appearances in the Europa League. On the international stage, he first joined Morocco's U23 team, won the Africa Cup of Nations in his age category in 2023, and earned a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. At club level, El Azzouzi later moved to Serie A with FC Bologna, which was crowned Italian champion last May for the first time in 51 years. Although an injury hampered his progress, the Moroccan international still managed to contribute two goals and two assists in his debut season with the club.
