EDITOR NOTE: This article is a translation of the original written in French by Omar Chraibi for Pan-Africa Football
At only 23-years-old, LOSC Lille and Morocco national team winger Osame Sahraoui has established himself as one of the revelations of the season, whether in France's Ligue 1 or the UEFA Champions League.
Between brilliant performances, impressive statistics and a promising future, the young Moroccan international is already attracting the attention of the biggest European clubs.
An immediate impact in Lille
Arriving in Lille with a reputation as a raw talent, the dual national born in Oslo, Norway quickly dispelled doubts. During the 20th matchday of Ligue 1, he came on against Saint-Étienne and transformed the match into a real personal show: two goals scored (63rd and 78th minutes) and an undeniable influence on the game.
This is not an isolated stroke of brilliance. Over the last three matches, he has scored 4 goals and provided 3 assists, displaying statistics worthy of the best European strikers.
His statistics this season in Ligue 1 speak for themselves:
• 19 matches played
• 3 goals
• 987 minutes on the pitch
But it is on the European scene where he also shines brightly.
A hero in the Champions League
The match against Feyenoord Rotterdam will always be remembered. Lille won 6-1, and Sahraoui was omnipresent: involved in three goals, he scored and provided an assist showing boundless creativity. The French press was not mistaken.
The headline at French sports daily L'Équipe read: “Sahraoui Show”, highlighting his central role in Lille's historic qualification for the knockout stages of the Champions League, directly without going through the play-offs.
His statistics in continental competition are impressive:
• 8 matches,
• 2 goals,
• 449 minutes of pure talent.
A unique style of play
Osame Sahraoui is above all a player capable of changing a match single-handedly. Versatile, he can play on the wings, but also in support of an attacker. His ability to eliminate one-on-one, his vision of the game and his quality of passing make him a formidable offensive asset.
The young Moroccan seduces with his speed of execution, his tactical intelligence, but also his audacity. He never hesitates to try his luck, to provoke and unbalance opposing defenses. His composure in front of goal and his ability to create chances in small spaces are reminiscent of the qualities of great strikers.
The emergence of a leader
Beyond the statistics, it is his natural leadership that impresses. Despite his young age, Sahraoui does not hesitate to take responsibility on the field. His influence goes beyond goals and assists: he motivates his teammates, directs the game and inspires confidence.
“He is a player who makes the difference, but also is an exemplary teammate,” declares his coach Bruno Génésio.
After previously representing Norway on one occasion, he switched allegiance to Morocco and debuted in an October victory over Central African Repbulic in 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying. His career with the Moroccan national team should also be followed closely, as he could well become one of the pillars of the Atlas Lions in the years to come.
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