Anass Zaroury

Anass Zaroury is a Moroccan professional footballer born in Mechelen, Belgium. He plays as a left winger or attacking midfielder for the Columbus Crew of Major League Soccer on loan from Panathinaikos in Greece's Super League. Standing at 5'9", Zaroury is known for his explosive pace, technical dribbling, and creative playmaking in wide areas.

His international career took a unique path after representing Belgium at the under-17 level. He later switched allegiance to Morocco, earning a spot on their historic squad that reached the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Though he was an unused substitute during that tournament run, the selection marked a pivotal moment in his rise to global recognition. [edit]

Born to parents of Moroccan heritage in the Belgian city of Mechelen, Anass grew up in a multicultural environment where football was a central passion. His early years were spent playing in local youth leagues before he joined the formal academy system of Charleroi. This club became the foundation of his development, where he honed the skills that would eventually catch the eye of scouts from across Europe.

Zaroury's talent did not go unnoticed for long. After impressing in the Belgian youth ranks, he moved to the senior squad of Charleroi, making his professional debut in 2019. His rapid progression led to a transfer to Club Brugge, one of Belgium's top clubs. During his time there, he spent several seasons on loan at various teams, including KSV Waregem, gaining valuable competitive experience in different tactical systems.

The turning point came when he caught the attention of English scouts. In 2022, he made the move to Burnley FC, joining their squad during a crucial campaign. His adaptability and flair on the pitch helped him settle quickly into the English Championship, setting the stage for his next major leap into European competition. [edit]

Zaroury's breakthrough moment arrived with Burnley FC in 2022. He played a significant role in their promotion-winning season in the EFL Championship, showcasing his ability to perform in high-pressure environments. His performances in England drew widespread attention from continental scouts, leading to a lucrative transfer to Panathinaikos in Greece in 2023.

At Panathinaikos, he flourished as a key attacker. The 2025 season marked a personal milestone when he scored a hat-trick against Young Boys in Bern on September 25. That performance was widely cited by media as a defining moment that cemented his reputation as a match-winner in European competitions. By May 2026, his consistent form had linked him with other top clubs, but he ultimately secured a high-profile loan move to the United States.

In September 2026, just before the close of the MLS summer transfer window, the Columbus Crew announced the acquisition of Zaroury. This move brought his dynamic style to Major League Soccer, where he continues to develop as one of the league's most exciting young talents. His journey from Belgian youth academies to becoming a regular fixture in the Moroccan national team setup highlights his steady ascent on the global stage. [edit]

Zaroury projects the image of a serious, hardworking athlete focused on his craft. Media portrayals emphasize his technical abilities, speed, and creativity rather than off-field drama. He is seen as a modern playmaker who blends traditional wide-wing duties with the freedom to drift inside and create chances. His public voice is minimal, reinforcing a reputation built on consistency and professionalism. [edit]

Anass Zaroury's fame is rooted in his athletic achievements rather than celebrity culture. According to the iFANN Global Fame Rankings, he holds steady positions as the 88th most famous person in Morocco and the 56th most famous person from Morocco. These rankings reflect his growing popularity following his World Cup inclusion and subsequent club success in Greece and the United States.

Unlike many modern stars, Zaroury does not have a formal fandom name or organized supporter rituals. His audience consists mainly of fans from his clubs, Panathinaikos, Burnley, and now the Columbus Crew, as well as supporters of the Moroccan national team. The admiration he receives is organic, driven by his rapid ascent and standout moments like his 2025 hat-trick in Bern. [edit]

One of the most enduring stories surrounding Anass is his dual identity as a Belgian-born player who chose to represent Morocco internationally. While he started his youth career with Belgium U17s, his decision to switch to the Moroccan national team allowed him to be part of their historic 2022 World Cup run, even if he remained on the bench.

Another notable fact is his market value, which stood at €7 million according to Transfermarkt in 2026, reflecting his status as a highly sought-after young prospect. Fans often recall his hat-trick against Young Boys in Bern as the moment he truly announced himself as a star capable of changing games single-handedly.

Despite his rising profile, Zaroury maintains a relatively low social media presence compared to other stars. His Instagram handle @zaroury_ has a modest following, suggesting he prefers to let his on-field performances speak for themselves rather than cultivating a celebrity persona. [edit]

Anass was born in Mechelen, Belgium, to parents of Moroccan descent. His upbringing in a multicultural household deeply influenced his connection to both Belgian and Moroccan cultures. He attended local schools in Mechelen before dedicating himself fully to football through the Charleroi youth academy. There are no publicly confirmed details about siblings or extended family members, as he keeps his private life largely out of the spotlight. [edit]

Charleroi, Club Brugge, Burnley FC, Panathinaikos, Columbus Crew, Morocco National Team, Belgium U17[edit]

As of 2026, Anass Zaroury maintains a low profile regarding his personal life. There are no publicly confirmed romantic relationships, engagements, or marriages reported in credible sources. He appears to focus entirely on his football career, keeping his private life separate from his public achievements. He is currently single and has no publicly known children. [edit]

iFANN Editorial Team research estimates Anass Zaroury's net worth at approximately $2.5 million as of 2026. This figure reflects his earnings from professional football contracts with clubs in Belgium, England, Greece, and the United States. His primary income streams include his salary at Panathinaikos and his recent loan agreement with the Columbus Crew.

Unlike established veterans, he has not yet disclosed major endorsement deals or real estate holdings. His wealth is primarily derived from his club salaries, which have grown steadily as he progressed from Belgian youth football to the European and American stages. [edit]