AS Monaco has officially announced the signing of academy talents Safouane Benzahra and Nahel Haddani to their first professional contracts. The Moroccan duo impressed at both youth and senior levels, prompting the French club to secure their services. This move is seen as a significant milestone in their football careers, with the potential to further develop their skills in a professional setting.
Safouane Benzahra, an 18-year-old attacking midfielder, has made a notable impact since joining Monaco's academy from NAC Breda in the summer of 2025. He quickly established himself as a core figure for the U19 squad, scoring eight goals in 16 appearances. Benzahra's performances earned him a spot in the senior squad during pre-season, where he featured in several friendlies before making his competitive debut in the UEFA Conference League play-offs against Górnik Zabrze.
Benzahra's success extends beyond the club level, as he has been a regular fixture in Morocco's youth setup. He has featured for Morocco's U17 and U18 national teams and was recently called up to the Atlas Lions' U20 squad. His international experience, combined with his club performances, make him a promising talent for Moroccan football.
Nahel Haddani, a 17-year-old forward, also joined Monaco's academy in the summer of 2025, arriving from Saint-Clément. He earned the move following a standout final season with his former club, where he scored 22 goals in the French U17 league. Haddani carried that form into his debut season at Monaco, playing a central role in the U19s' run to the national semi-finals and scoring 14 goals in 22 appearances.
Haddani's impressive performances have not gone unnoticed on the international stage. He played a major role in Morocco's quarter-final run in the 2025 U17 World Cup, directly contributing to four goals in the tournament. His skills and potential have made him an exciting prospect for Moroccan football fans.
The signing of Benzahra and Haddani to professional contracts marks a significant investment in their future. AS Monaco's decision to offer them their first professional deals reflects the club's confidence in their abilities and potential for growth. This move is expected to have a positive impact on Moroccan football, as both players are likely to continue developing their skills in a professional environment.
The announcement of Benzahra and Haddani's professional contracts was made on September 22, 2026, according to a report by Youssef Zemlaoui for Morocco World News. The club's decision to sign these young talents has generated excitement among Moroccan football fans, who are eager to see them continue to grow and succeed in their careers.
Key points
- AS Monaco signs Moroccan duo Safouane Benzahra and Nahel Haddani to their first professional contracts.
- Benzahra and Haddani have impressed at both youth and senior levels, prompting the French club to secure their services.
- The signing of Benzahra and Haddani marks a significant investment in their future, reflecting the club's confidence in their abilities and potential for growth.
