Youssef Belammari: A Unique Journey to the World Stage
As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup begins, one player stands out among the Lions of the Atlas: Youssef Belammari. What sets him apart is not just his athletic prowess but the unique path he has taken within the Moroccan football landscape. Unlike many of his compatriots who have honed their skills in European academies, Belammari has built his foundation entirely in Morocco, showcasing the strength and depth of local talent.
Born in Casablanca in 1998, Belammari began his football journey at the renowned FUS Rabat, one of Morocco's premier training clubs. He joined the academy at a young age and made his first-team debut in 2017 under the guidance of a then-novice coach, Walid Regragui. Little did he know that years later, this same coach would be instrumental in his rise to the national team. Throughout his career at FUS Rabat, Belammari established himself as one of the most reliable left-backs in the Botola, participating in over 120 matches and earning a reputation for his consistency rather than flashy performances.
A Historic Transfer and Rising Star
In 2023, Belammari made a significant move to Raja Casablanca, joining one of the most successful clubs in Moroccan football history. His time at Raja proved pivotal, as the team achieved an unprecedented feat by winning the Botola title without a single defeat during the 2023-2024 season. Alongside clinching the Throne Cup, this historic double solidified Belammari's status as one of the country's top defenders.
Belammari's efforts on the pitch did not go unnoticed. After representing Morocco at youth levels and with the local national team, he received his first call-up to the senior squad in October 2024, again thanks to Coach Regragui. His significant contributions continued, as he played a crucial role in Morocco's victory at the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) and later earned selections for the Africa Cup of Nations and the upcoming World Cup.
The year 2026 marked a turning point in his career when he signed a three-and-a-half-year contract with the Egyptian club Al Ahly, marking his first international experience. Expressing his ambitions, Belammari stated, "I chose Ahly because it is a club that aims for all possible titles, and I hope to help the club achieve its goals." For a player who dedicated nearly a decade to proving himself in Moroccan football, a spot on the World Cup roster seems like the natural culmination of a deeply rooted local career.
As reported by yabiladi.com.
