Manchester United Step Up Pursuit Of Ajax Prodigy Abdellah Ouazane – The Next Jude Bellingham?
Manchester United’s relentless search for future stars has turned its spotlight on Ajax’s Abdellah Ouazane, the teenage sensation whose dazzling performances at the U17 Africa Cup of Nations have made him one of the most sought-after prospects in Europe. The 16-year-old’s rapid ascent is stirring intrigue, with comparisons already being drawn to England and Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham.
Scouts from Old Trafford watched intently as Ouazane led Morocco to the semi-finals of the prestigious youth tournament on home soil, despite being a year younger than many rivals. Born in Amsterdam and a product of Ajax’s famed academy – joining in 2016 from Zeeburgia alongside his striker brother Zakaria – Ouazane’s development reflects both versatility and technical prowess. Athletic and balanced, he’s lauded for his ability to dictate play from midfield, drive forward with the ball, and contribute both goals and assists.
"He’s a player we count on a lot. He can make the difference," Morocco coach Nabil Baha told reporters, acknowledging the midfielder’s unusual maturity and hunger. “He was born in 2009 – people forget that. He’s a year younger than the others. But he plays at Ajax, and he’s full of talent. These days, 100 per cent isn’t enough. What we need is 120 per cent. And he’s capable of that." This endorsement is compelling, painting a vivid picture of the wonderkid’s mentality and ceiling.
Within the context of Manchester United’s evolving transfer strategy under INEOS ownership, Ouazane fits a clear template. Facing a constrained budget for senior reinforcements this summer, United are doubling down on youth investment, aiming to unearth potential world-class players before their market values soar. The Red Devils completed deals in recent windows for promising teenagers like Leny Yoro, Chido Obi, Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu, and Ayden Heaven. All were signed before turning 21—a testament to the club’s intent to future-proof its squad.
Ouazane, who has featured 11 times for Ajax's U17s with a goal and an assist, stands out even among this emerging cohort. His connection to Bellingham stylistically—combining athleticism with elegant ball control and a sense for decisive moments—has inevitably heightened expectations. Manchester United’s scouts are keen not just to monitor, but to make an early approach, aware of interest from rival clubs across Europe. English sides, however, must wait until young international players turn 18 under current regulations, posing a challenge for any immediate move.
Analysts note that United’s frugal summer plans may benefit their long-term project. With the club actively looking to offload senior names like Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Antony, the arrival of raw but high-upside talents like Ouazane could help lay strong foundations beneath the first team. It signals a calculated shift from big-money short-term fixes to sustainable squad-building—one that supporters and football purists may welcome if patience is shown.
As the transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on whether United can fend off competition to secure Ouazane’s signature, or if the club’s latest gambit in youth recruitment will become another ‘one that got away.’
What do you think of United’s new approach to talent acquisition? Could Abdellah Ouazane be the next Bellingham to flourish in the Premier League? Share your thoughts below and join the debate!
