Andrew Olsson
July 21, 2025Morocco youth international El Aynaoui completes move to AS Roma
Photo: AS Roma
Morocco youth international El Aynaoui completes move to AS Roma
Morocco U-23 international Neil El Aynaoui will play in Italy’s Serie A next season after completing a big money transfer from French Ligue 1 side RC Lens.
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The 24-year-old central midfielder arrives for a €23.5 million fee after starring for Lens, who finished in 8th position at the conclusion of the 2024-25 Ligue 1 season. El Aynaoui enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with 8 goals and an assist in 24 games.
El Aynaoui, son of well-known Moroccan tennis player Younes El Aynaoui, was born in France and first represented hometown club Nancy before joining Lens. He came up through the youth academy of AS Nancy-Lorraine before making 60 appearances over two seasons in Ligue 2 and the third tier Championnat National.
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El Aynaoui joins Roma on a five-year contract and is expected to compete for playing time with the Giallorossi. In a video on the club’s social media channels, El Aynaoui describes himself as a “modern midfielder” with the ability to contribute in both defense and attack. He has made one appearance for the Morocco under-23 national team in a friendly against Brazil in September 2023.