Zakaria El Ouahdi has been named the best African player in Belgium’s top flight after winning the Ebony Shoe for the 2025-26 season.
The award recognises the standout African or African-origin player in the Belgian Pro League, with the defender’s performances for KRC Genk earning him the honour.
El Ouahdi, 24, was widely regarded as a leading contender following a consistent campaign in which he contributed at both ends of the pitch.
He finished ahead of Adem Zorgane and Raphael Onyedika, who were also recognised for strong seasons.
The Moroccan international’s attacking output proved decisive, with his ability to influence games from a defensive position setting him apart from his rivals.
His success places him among a select group of Moroccan players to have won the award, joining Mbark Boussoufa and Tarik Tissoudali.
Boussoufa claimed the prize on three occasions, while Tissoudali’s win in 2022 highlighted Morocco’s continued presence at the top level of European football.
El Ouahdi’s victory also continues a strong run for Genk, who have now produced back-to-back winners after Tolu Arokodare secured the award last season.
The recognition reflects the club’s reputation for developing African talent and providing a platform for players to excel.
Statistically, El Ouahdi’s campaign underlined his impact.
Despite playing as a defender, he recorded 12 goals and four assists in 41 appearances, a return that highlights his attacking contribution as well as his defensive reliability.
His ability to drive forward and influence play has made him one of the most complete performers in the league this season.
With such form, interest from clubs across Europe is expected to grow ahead of the summer transfer window.
Even if Genk qualify for continental competition, retaining the full-back could prove difficult as his profile continues to rise.
For now, the award marks a significant milestone in El Ouahdi’s career, reinforcing both his individual progress and Morocco’s growing influence in European football.
