At 39, Nordin Amrabat starts a new chapter with FC Utrecht

This update focuses on Nordin Amrabat at FC Utrecht. At 39, Nordin Amrabat is extending his career at the top level by signing for FC Utrecht, where he will wear the number 39 shirt.

Nordin Amrabat at FC Utrecht: a return to familiar ground

FC Utrecht officially announced on Tuesday 1 September that the Moroccan international had joined its first team squad. Nordin Amrabat, a free agent after leaving Wydad Casablanca this summer, had been training with the professional group for almost two weeks.

This period acted as a successful trial. The staff led by Anthony Correia approved his signing after assessing his fitness and the role he could play in the squad.

For Moroccans living in the Netherlands and across Europe, Nordin Amrabat at FC Utrecht means a familiar face remains in a league that is easy to follow both in stadiums and on television. Playing in a well-connected European city also makes it easier for fans who regularly travel between Morocco and Europe to plan match trips.

The key influence of Sofyan Amrabat and family ties

This new chapter for Nordin Amrabat at FC Utrecht is closely linked to his younger brother, Sofyan Amrabat. A former player who came through the club’s academy, Sofyan first discussed with Nordin the idea of a return to the Netherlands.

According to the club, Sofyan then contacted sporting director Jordy Zuidam to open the door to a possible move. That conversation led to Nordin being invited to train with the first team, before the final decision was made to sign him.

“I am proud to be part of FC Utrecht. My brother did all his training here, so we have a very strong bond with the club. The family is happy to be able to come back to Galgenwaard at the weekend. It’s a nice cherry on the cake,” said Nordin Amrabat after his arrival was confirmed.

For many Moroccan families settled in Europe, the Amrabat brothers’ careers illustrate a lasting connection between country of residence and country of origin, with football at the heart of a shared family story.

Top-level experience to boost Utrecht

With 64 caps for the national team, Nordin Amrabat has been a key figure for the Atlas Lions over the past decade. His international career, including appearances at major tournaments, makes him one of the most experienced Moroccan players of his generation.

At club level, he has played for PSV Eindhoven, Galatasaray, Málaga and Watford, before returning recently to Morocco with Wydad Casablanca. His move to FC Utrecht brings him back to a league he knows well and where he has played before.

FC Utrecht expects him to provide:

• top-level experience to guide a developing squad,
• leadership and personality in the dressing room,
• versatility in wide attacking positions,
• a bridge between younger players and the coaching staff.

For Moroccan fans, especially those living in Europe, this case offers another opportunity to follow a well-known international player up close, whether during trips or regular stays between Morocco and the Netherlands.

At a time when many Moroccan players are shining in Europe’s major leagues, this new step in Nordin Amrabat’s career is a reminder that longevity at the top level remains possible at 39, when experience and physical discipline come together.

For more context, readers can follow Canal212 news for Moroccans abroad.

For official updates, readers can check the relevant official source.