Hamburger SV have completed the signing of Moroccan international Zakaria El Ouahdi. The 25-year-old right-back joins from Belgian side KRC Genk, signing a five-year contract with the Bundesliga club until 2031, as confirmed on Tuesday.
The transfer fee is reported to be eight million euros by the outlet Morocco World News. The deal includes potential add-ons worth up to four million euros and a significant sell-on clause for Genk. The move was finalized after El Ouahdi passed his medical and completed the necessary formalities. "El Ouahdi is set to sign a five-year contract with Hamburger SV, as previously anticipated," said journalist Sacha Tavolieri. HSV currently sit 15th in the Bundesliga table with zero points, three points behind leaders Bayern Munich.
How did El Ouahdi perform at Genk?
Zakaria El Ouahdi spent three seasons with KRC Genk, establishing himself as a key player for the Belgian club. In the 2025/26 campaign, he made 43 appearances across all competitions, scoring an impressive twelve goals. In the Belgian Pro League alone, he featured 34 times, netting eight goals and providing four assists. His offensive output and versatility at right-back raised his profile on the European scene. He is also a regular starter for the Morocco national team, known as the Atlas Lions.
What does the signing mean for HSV's defence?
The acquisition of El Ouahdi is a targeted reinforcement for Hamburger SV's backline. The club has conceded two goals and scored none in their single league match so far this season. With his experience from the Belgian top flight and international football, the new signing is expected to add stability defensively while contributing to attacking moves. His five-year contract signals a long-term commitment from the club. His integration into coach Tim Walter's plans can be tracked in our current squad overview.
What is the financial structure of the deal?
The transfer represents a substantial investment for Hamburger SV. The fixed fee of eight million euros is supplemented by potential bonuses of four million euros. "Genk will receive €8 million for the transfer, along with €4 million in potential bonuses and a significant percentage of any future resale value," Tavolieri added. This sell-on clause ensures the Belgian club benefits if El Ouahdi is sold for a higher fee in the future. The broader financial context of the team's operations is available in our stats section.
When could El Ouahdi make his debut?
The new right-back could make his debut as soon as the next matchday. Hamburger SV travel to face RB Leipzig, who are currently 4th in the table, on September 13, 2026. This tough away fixture is the next entry on the club's fixtures list. The team will be looking to bounce back from a record of one game played, zero points, and one loss. The signing of Zakaria El Ouahdi is a clear statement of intent for the season ahead.
