Selhurst Park has always been more than a stadium; it is a living monument to determination, loyalty, and the undying spirit of the South London community. For generations, Crystal Palace supporters have witnessed moments of triumph and despair, the highs of cup runs and the grind of league survival. Every chant, every flag, and every heartbeat within the stadium embodies a story of resilience—a belief that no setback is permanent, and that greatness can emerge when patience, vision, and ambition align.
Winter in London brings more than cold winds and gray skies—it brings anticipation. For the Eagles faithful, the January window is a season of whispers, speculation, and dreams that a single signing could transform the narrative of the campaign. The hope that a new addition could inject energy, tactical balance, and renewed ambition into the squad is palpable, stirring excitement even before a single signature is confirmed.
Crystal Palace have entered discussions with Genk over the potential transfer of 24-year-old Moroccan international Zakaria El Ouahdi. The Eagles are searching for reinforcements to cover for Daniel Munoz, who has been sidelined with knee surgery, and El Ouahdi has emerged as a priority target. Sources indicate that Genk would consider offers exceeding €10million, though no formal bid has been lodged yet.
“El Ouahdi is a superb player, complete in his approach and highly adaptable,” analyst Jacek Kulig noted.
El Ouahdi has proven himself as a versatile asset for Genk this season, making 20 appearances, including six in European competitions. Comfortable on either wing as a back or even pushed further forward, his adaptability offers Palace tactical flexibility, a quality crucial to navigating the Premier League’s challenges in Munoz’s absence.
Munoz, who joined Palace in January 2024 for around £7million, has been central to the Eagles’ setup, recording four goals and two assists this season alone. His absence has exposed vulnerabilities down the right flank, making the search for capable cover urgent and strategic.
The Morocco international’s journey has been as impressive as it has been methodical. He featured in all six matches for Morocco’s Under-23 side at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, helping them secure a bronze medal, and earned his senior debut in 2025. These experiences demonstrate both his technical quality and mental fortitude, attributes Palace hope will translate seamlessly into the Premier League.
“We are exploring our options carefully, ensuring any new addition aligns with the team’s long-term vision and immediate needs,” a club source explained.
Crystal Palace have already made headlines this month by breaking their club-record transfer to sign Brennan Johnson from Tottenham Hotspur for £35million. While this reinforced the attacking unit, the search for defensive balance, particularly at wing-back, remains ongoing. Other young talents, such as 19-year-old Angers forward Sidiki Cherif, are also under consideration, highlighting the club’s ambition to combine immediate reinforcements with future potential.
El Ouahdi’s interest in a Premier League move adds further intrigue to the saga. Sources indicate he is eager to test himself at the highest level of English football, a factor that could make negotiations smoother and more compelling for Palace. His arrival could not only provide cover for Munoz but also represent a statement of intent, signaling the club’s ambition to compete and innovate even amid challenges.
“Integrating a player of his quality would be a significant step for us, both on the field and in sending a message to our supporters,” the source continued.
As January unfolds, the pursuit of Zakaria El Ouahdi represents more than a transfer; it embodies hope, ambition, and the continuation of a proud tradition at Selhurst Park. For the Eagles faithful, each negotiation, each rumor, and each potential signing carries the promise of renewed excitement, the thrill of possibility, and the unwavering belief that Crystal Palace can once again soar.
