A new Moroccan talent is beginning to make his mark in French football.
At just 18 years old, Safwan Benzahra is preparing to take another major step in his developing career, with the young attacker set to sign his first professional contract with AS Monaco.
The move comes after an impressive period with the club's youth teams, where his performances earned him an opportunity to train and compete alongside the senior squad.
From Monaco's Academy to the First Team
Benzahra's progress through Monaco's youth setup has been rapid.
After producing strong performances at youth level, the Moroccan was promoted to the first team and given the opportunity to experience senior European football.
His official debut came in the UEFA Conference League qualifying rounds, when Monaco faced Polish side Górnik Zabrze.
For a player still only 18, stepping onto the European stage represents an important milestone and another indication of the confidence Monaco has placed in his development.
A Journey That Began in the Netherlands
The young attacker's footballing journey began in the Netherlands with Baronie, before he joined the academy of NAC Breda.
It was there that he began attracting attention through his performances in Dutch youth competitions.
His progress eventually led him to France, where Monaco became the next stage of his development.
The move to the Principality has now opened the door to a potential professional career at one of France's most recognised clubs.
A Forward With Scoring Instinct
The 18-year-old can operate as a left winger or striker, giving him flexibility across the attacking line.
His biggest strength has been his ability in front of goal, with an impressive scoring record across Monaco's U17 and U19 teams.
That attacking instinct has helped him stand out among his generation and ultimately earn his opportunity with the senior side.
Morocco Has Been Part of His Development
His international journey has also increasingly taken shape with Morocco.
The youngster has represented the Morocco U18 team, taking part in youth-team training camps before later receiving a call-up to the U20 national team.
His decision to represent the Atlas Lions came after previously attending a training camp with the Netherlands U16s.
That choice has added another promising name to Morocco's growing pool of young players developing across European academies.
Another Step Toward Professional Football
The expected professional contract with Monaco would represent a significant moment in his career.
From his beginnings in Dutch youth football to his development at NAC Breda and Monaco, the forward has steadily progressed through increasingly demanding environments.
Now, after making his senior debut in European competition, he stands on the verge of officially beginning his professional journey.
For Moroccan football, his emergence is another encouraging sign of the talent developing across Europe's major academies.
At 18, Safouane Benzahra has already taken his first steps into senior football. The next chapter could begin with his first professional contract at Monaco.