The cherry on the cake for Abde's season

Barça's Abde attracted a lot of attention during 2022/23, a season which has ended in style with the winger claiming the U-23 Africa Cup of Nations with Morocco. The title is the cherry on the cake of 12 months in which Abde has also starred with Osasuna as well as the national side. 

Key player in Pamplona  

Offering pace and the ability to take players on, the winger has caught everyone's eye over the last year. On loan from FC Barcelona at Osasuna in 2022/23, Abde was a key member of Jagoba Arrasate's team who had an excellent season, finishing seventh in La Liga and reaching the final of the Copa del Rey. Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, to give him his full name, played his part with six goals in 34 games for the Pamplona club. 

His performances caught the eye of the national team and he was called up to the Morocco squad for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Abde made three appearances in the tournament in which the Africans were the revelation, reaching the semi-finals. 

Excellent stats in the U23 African Cup of Nations

Success with the national set up continued into the summer as on 8 July Abde claimed the U23 Africa Cup of Nations title with Morocco. The winger played a significant part in the victory for his nation in a game that was held in Morocco, in the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. In extra time Abde provided the cross for Oussama Targhalline winner to beat rivals Egypt 2-1 in a tight final, his third assist of the tournament. 

Abde not only provided most assists in the tournament, he was also top scorer with three goals. The win for Morocco means they are guaranteed a place in the Olympic tournament in Paris in 2024, a great reward for a great season for Abdessamad Ezzalzouli.