Azzedine Ounahi rejects two La Liga transfer offers
Azzedine Ounahi has rejected transfer offers from Villarreal and Real Sociedad, two La Liga clubs, and will not decide his club future until Morocco finishes its 2026 World Cup campaign. The Moroccan midfielder is fully focused on the Atlas Lions and, according to reports citing Mundo Deportivo, will review all proposals after the tournament ends.
Key Takeaways
- Ounahi turned down official approaches from Villarreal and Real Sociedad to avoid transfer distractions during the World Cup.
- Celta Vigo and Real Betis remain interested, even after Girona's relegation to Spain's second division.
- His release clause stays at 25 million euros, though Girona may accept a fee below 20 million euros.
- The midfielder is under contract with Girona until summer 2030 but wants an amicable exit.
- His World Cup performances could shape which La Liga club lands him next.
Why did Azzedine Ounahi reject Villarreal and Real Sociedad?
According to LeSiteinfo, YSscores, and Elbotola, all citing Spanish daily Mundo Deportivo, Ounahi declined two concrete La Liga offers rather than negotiate while Morocco competes at the 2026 World Cup. He wants full focus on the Atlas Lions instead of final transfer talks.
YSscores reports that he refused to engage in final transfer negotiations despite rising interest from Spanish clubs during the summer window. Elbotola adds that he prefers to examine every option only after Morocco's tournament run ends, keeping club business on hold until his international duty is done.
Which La Liga clubs are still chasing Ounahi?
Rejection does not mean silence. All three sources say Villarreal and Real Sociedad are not alone. Celta Vigo and Real Betis continue to monitor the midfielder closely, viewing him as one of Girona's standout talents even after the club dropped to the second tier.
That sustained attention matters. Girona's relegation has fueled speculation about a summer move, yet Ounahi remains one of the club's leading players. For fans tracking how star athletes choose their next base—much like buyers comparing premium destinations in our Luxury Real Estate & Dream Homes coverage—his next address could still be a top-flight La Liga city.
What does his Girona contract mean for a summer transfer?
Financial details are clearer than the destination. Mundo Deportivo, relayed by the French and Moroccan outlets, states Ounahi's release clause remains 25 million euros and was not reduced after relegation. Girona's leadership, however, reportedly accepts that a deal could close for under 20 million euros this summer if terms align.
He is tied to Girona until 2030, but Elbotola and YSscores both stress he does not plan to pressure the board. He wants a departure that preserves the strong relationship he has built at the club, leaving room for a mutually beneficial agreement once the World Cup ends.
When will Ounahi finally pick his next club?
The timeline is explicit: after Morocco exits the World Cup. Until then, no final call. LeSiteinfo notes he will study proposals only once the competition concludes, while his World Cup form could influence talks with suitors still circling.
For authoritative context on the original reporting, see Mundo Deportivo, the Spanish outlet cited across the story. Until Ounahi reopens talks, La Liga's waiting game continues—and so does Morocco's.