The South African duo of Thembinkosi Lorch and Cassius Mailula is set to team up with Moroccan international Nordin Amrabat, who has joined Wydad Athletic Club. Amrabat was unveiled on Saturday by the three-time African champions.
Wydad will have the chance to register their new players, including former Young Africans SC midfielder Stephane Aziz Ki, next week. FIFA has announced a special transfer window for all clubs participating in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.
The Casablanca-based club is one of four African clubs set to represent the continent in the FIFA Club World Cup. The tournament is scheduled to take place in the United States. The other teams are South African champions Mamelodi Sundowns, Tunisian giants Esperance, and Al Ahly of Egypt.
AMRABAT JOINS LORCH & MAILULA AT WYDAD
The 38-year-old’s latest professional spell was with Cypriot side APOEL, where he played from January to May 2025. He has now opted to conclude his European career and return to the Moroccan league through Wydad, bringing extensive experience from top-level European and Gulf football.
Wydad considers Amrabat’s signing a significant reinforcement to bolster their squad, especially ahead of the major fixtures at the Club World Cup. The Moroccan giants aim to make a notable impact both continentally and globally.
Wydad will begin their Club World Cup journey on Wednesday, June 18. This will be against Manchester City at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. Their second match is scheduled for Sunday, June 22, at the same venue against Juventus. The group stage will conclude with a game against Al Ain on Thursday, June 26, at Audi Field in Washington, DC.
They recently parted company with South African coach Rulani Mokwena after an inconsistent season. Wydad finished the season third and will play CAF Confederation Cup football next season. They will be hoping to put up a strong challenge for the Botola Pro title.
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