PLAYER SNAPSHOT: At a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Youssef Belammari |
| Date of Birth | 20/09/1998 (Age: 27) |
| Place of Birth | Casablanca, Morocco |
| Nationality | Moroccan |
| Height | 1.80 m / 5 ft 11 in |
| Position | Left-Back / Left Midfielder |
| Preferred Foot | Left |
| Squad Number | #20 |
| Current Club | Al Ahly |
| Previous Clubs | FUS Rabat, Raja Casablanca |
| International Caps | 18+ |
| International Goals | 0 |
| World Cup Appearances | 2026 |
The Frozen Moment
The Throne Cup final was hanging in the balance. It was July 2024, and Raja Casablanca were facing AS FAR in a do-or-die match for the domestic double. In the dying minutes, with the score at 1-1 and AS FAR pushing for a winner, Youssef Belammari made a decisive tackle that saved the game for Raja. The Greens held on, won 2-1, and completed the first invincible season in Moroccan football history—an unprecedented achievement of 30 games without defeat.
For Belammari, the tackle was more than just a moment of glory. It was the culmination of a career that had seen him establish himself at FUS Rabat, make a high-profile move to Raja, and become a key part of a team that had achieved the impossible. Two years later, at the 2026 World Cup, he was named in Morocco’s 26-man squad, a reward for his versatility, consistency, and never-say-die attitude.
Origins: The Casablanca Product
Youssef Belammari was born on September 20, 1998, in Casablanca, Morocco. His football journey began at the age of 10 when he joined the youth system of Fath Union Sports (FUS Rabat). He spent his formative years developing at the club, honing his craft and learning the trade.
In early 2017, he was called up to the first team under manager Walid Regragui. On April 5, 2017, he made his professional debut against Raja Casablanca. Just two months later, on August 27, 2017, he scored his first professional goal against Mouloudia d’Oujda in the Throne Cup. It was the start of a career that would take him to the top of Moroccan football.
The European Forge: FUS Rabat to Raja Casablanca
Belammari’s time at FUS Rabat was transformative. Over six seasons, he made 121 league appearances and scored eight goals. He became a regular starter in the Botola Pro, and his consistent performances earned him a reputation as one of the best left-sided players in the league.
In July 2023, he signed a three-year deal with Raja Casablanca, becoming the club’s third summer signing. His arrival was a statement of intent from the Greens, and Belammari quickly repaid their faith. In the 2023-24 season, he was part of the Raja side that made history. They won the Botola Pro without a single defeat, becoming the first team ever to achieve an invincible season in Moroccan football. They followed it up with a Throne Cup victory, securing the first domestic double in the club’s history.
The 2024-25 season was another success. He made 23 league appearances, scored two goals, and contributed significantly to the team’s attacking output. In the CAF Champions League, he played three matches, registering an assist. His all-round contribution made him a key player for the Greens.
The Move to Al Ahly
In January 2026, Belammari made a significant move, transferring from Raja Casablanca to Egyptian giants Al Ahly. The transfer was a step up, a chance to test himself in a new league and compete for titles in one of Africa’s biggest clubs. He has also represented Morocco at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) level, playing seven matches and recording two assists.
His arrival at Al Ahly gave him a platform to showcase his talents on the continental stage. In the CAF Champions League, he made three appearances, contributing one assist. His market value was estimated at around €2 million at the time of his move.
The Anatomy of His Game
Belammari is a versatile left-footed player who can operate as a left-back, left midfielder, or even as a right-back or centre-back. His versatility has made him a valuable asset for both club and country.
In possession
, his distribution is reliable. In international matches, he has contributed assists in African Cup of Nations qualifiers and World Cup qualifiers. His expected assists (xA) output of 0.37 per 90 minutes in World Cup qualifiers reflects his creative contribution. His ability to deliver crosses and set-pieces makes him a constant threat from wide areas.
Out of possession
, his defensive contribution is significant. His duel success, interception, and clearance stats have been praised by coaches. He is a tenacious tackler, rarely giving away fouls, and has been cautioned only once in international matches. His leadership is another key quality. He led by example during Raja’s historic invincible season and has been a key figure in the Morocco national team setup.
His weakness
has been his goal-scoring output. He has not yet scored for Morocco in his 18 appearances, though he has contributed assists. He also has yet to make his World Cup debut, though his selection for the squad is a significant achievement.
The Numbers Game
TABLE A: The Data Snapshot (International Career)
| Competition | Apps | Starts | Minutes | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| World Cup Qualifiers | 3 | 3 | 246 | 0 | 1 |
| Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers | 2 | 2 | 180 | 0 | 1 |
| Friendlies | 5 | 3 | 345 | 0 | 0 |
| CHAN | 7 | 7 | 660 | 0 | 2 |
| Total | 17 | 15 | 1,433 | 0 | 4 |
TABLE B: Club Career Snapshot
| Club | Period | Apps | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| FUS Rabat | 2017-2023 | 121 | 8 |
| Raja Casablanca | 2023-2026 | 65 | 4 |
| Al Ahly | 2026- | — | — |
| Total | — | 186+ | 12+ |
TABLE C: Career Milestones
| Year | Achievement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Professional Debut | Made debut for FUS Rabat |
| 2017 | First Professional Goal | Scored vs Mouloudia d’Oujda |
| 2024 | Invincible Double | Won Botola Pro and Throne Cup with Raja |
| 2025 | Africa Cup of Nations Winner | Won with Morocco |
| 2026 | Al Ahly Move | Signed for Egyptian giants |
| 2026 | World Cup Selection | Named in Morocco’s squad |
What these figures reveal is a player who has been a consistent performer at the highest level in Moroccan football for nearly a decade. He has won the invincible double with Raja Casablanca, the Africa Cup of Nations with Morocco, and has established himself as a key player for the national team. His 18 caps and his role in Morocco’s World Cup squad are a testament to his quality.
The Present Tense
The 2026 World Cup was the culmination of Belammari’s rise. He was named in Morocco’s 26-man squad for the tournament, a reward for his versatility and consistency. He is part of a generation that has already achieved history, winning the Africa Cup of Nations in 2025.
His journey to the World Cup has been defined by his resilience and his commitment to his country. He has been a regular in the Morocco national team since his debut in 2024. His role in the squad is clear: provide cover at left-back and left midfield, and bring experience and leadership to a young team.
Beyond the Touchline
Off the pitch, Belammari is known for his professionalism and his commitment to his country. He is a popular figure in the Morocco dressing room, and his experience is invaluable to the younger players.
He is a proud representative of Morocco, and his journey from the FUS Rabat youth system to the World Cup is an inspiration to many. He has spoken about the importance of the team environment and the support of his coaches.
His mother is a constant presence in his life. He has spoken about her support throughout his career, and his dedication to his family is unwavering.
The Verdict from the Camp
Walid Regragui, Morocco head coach:
Named Belammari in Morocco’s World Cup squad, a recognition of his versatility and consistency.
Morocco national team (2026):
Belammari is a key part of the squad, providing cover at left-back and left midfield.
Where Next?
Youssef Belammari is 27 years old and entering his prime. He has won the invincible double with Raja Casablanca, the Africa Cup of Nations with Morocco, and has established himself as a key player for the national team. He has 18 caps and is a World Cup player.
His legacy is still being written. He is the player who won the invincible double with Raja Casablanca, who made the decisive tackle in the Throne Cup final, who has been a consistent performer for Morocco. He is the versatile left-back who has earned his place on the world stage.
The journey from Casablanca to the World Cup has been remarkable. The boy who joined FUS Rabat’s youth system at 10 is now a key player for Morocco. His story is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the power of never giving up.
