Monaco have handed professional contracts to Moroccan youngsters Safouane Ben Zahra and Nael El Haddani as the French club continues to invest in players developed through its academy.
The two Moroccans were among four Monaco academy graduates to sign their first professional agreements, a move that could bring them closer to establishing themselves in the club’s senior squad.
Ben Zahra joined Monaco’s academy in the summer of 2025 after moving from Dutch side NAC Breda. He made an immediate impression with the Under-19 team, featuring 16 times during his first season and scoring eight goals.
His progress quickly brought him into consideration for the first team. The Moroccan was included in Monaco’s preparations during the summer before being given opportunities in competitive matches.
Ben Zahra made his senior debut in the first leg of Monaco’s Europa League qualifying play-off against Górnik Zabrze. He also featured in the return fixture before making an appearance in the French league as Monaco defeated Paris Saint-Germain 2-1.
The teenager has also represented Morocco at youth level, having played for the Under-17 and Under-18 sides. He has recently been called up to the Morocco Under-20 squad.
El Haddani continues rapid rise
El Haddani has followed a similar path since joining Monaco’s academy in the summer of 2025 from Saint-Clermont.
The Moroccan striker arrived in France after an impressive campaign with his former club, where he scored 22 goals in the French Under-17 Championship during his final season.
His scoring form continued after his move to Monaco.
El Haddani found the net 14 times in 22 appearances for Monaco’s Under-19 team in his first season. His contribution helped the side reach the semi-finals of the French Championship at that level.
The forward has also made an impact on the international stage with Morocco’s Under-17 team.
During the 2025 World Cup, El Haddani scored three goals and provided one assist as Morocco reached the quarter-finals.
His performances at both club and international level have now been followed by a significant step in his development with Monaco’s decision to hand him a professional contract.
Monaco’s investment in Moroccan talent
For Ben Zahra and El Haddani, the new agreements represent an important stage in their progression from academy football towards the senior game.
Ben Zahra has already had the opportunity to feature in official matches for Monaco’s first team, while El Haddani continues to work towards making his senior debut.
The club’s decision to secure both players professionally underlines its commitment to developing young talent and providing a pathway from its academy to the first team.
For Moroccan football, the progress of the pair also adds to the growing number of young players developing within European academies.
Ben Zahra and El Haddani will now look to build on their performances at youth level as they compete for greater opportunities with Monaco’s senior side in the coming period.
