El Ouahdi wins Ebony Shoe award in Belgium

El Ouahdi has won the 35th Ebony Shoe, given each year to the best player of African descent in Belgium’s top league, the Jupiler Pro League.

The KRC Genk right-back received the prize at a gala in Brussels on Monday night. He finished ahead of Adem Zorgane (Union) and Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge), with Promise David and Parfait Guiagon also nominated.

“I’m very happy with this recognition. The competition was strong, and everyone deserved to win”, El Ouahdi said. “It’s an honour to be on the list of past winners.”

“The competition was strong, and everyone deserved to win”

The 23-year-old, who represents Morocco internationally, impressed this season with his attacking play from defence, scoring several goals despite missing about two months with a shoulder injury. He has also spoken of his ambition to play at the next World Cup.

Genk did not qualify for the league’s top play-offs, but El Ouahdi remained one of their standout performers. His contract runs until 2028, though a summer transfer is possible.

The award continues a strong run for Genk, with the club producing several recent winners, including Tolu Arokodare in 2025.

^{Zakaria El Ouahdi wins the Ebony Shoe award © BELGA PHOTO ERIC LALMAND}