SK Rapid Wien has set its sights on 25‑year‑old Anouar El Azzouzi as a possible replacement for departing midfield engine Romeo Amane. The former Fortuna Düsseldorf player has been contract‑free since July 1 and could join the Viennese club immediately.

Who is Anouar El Azzouzi?

El Azzouzi was born on May 29 2001 in Veenendaal and comes from a Moroccan background. After seven years in Vitesse Arnhem’s academy he played for NEC Nijmegen, FC Dordrecht and became a regular at PEC Zwolle in the 2024/25 season, missing only one of 34 league matches. In summer 2025 he moved to Fortuna Düsseldorf for about €1.5 million, signing a contract until 2029, but the club’s drop to the 3. Liga automatically voided the deal – he is now a free agent.

What is his playing style?

Primarily a defensive midfielder, El Azzouzi can also slot in as a centre‑back. In the last 2. Liga season he led all Düsseldorf players in duel wins and was strong in aerial battles. His pass accuracy hovered around 93 % and his running metrics were above average. Fortuna described him at signing as a physically present, high‑work‑rate player with a strong ball‑recovery mindset. He collected nine yellow cards in 2025/26, the most in the squad.

Why is Rapid interested?

After an aggressive transfer window last season, Rapid is now more cautious, preferring to replace outgoing players before adding new ones. Selling Romeo Amane, the Ivorian midfield dynamo, would free up funds for a replacement – El Azzouzi is seen as a top candidate. Other clubs, including 1. FC Nürnberg, several Eredivisie sides and an MLS team, are also monitoring him, putting Rapid in a competitive race.

What could this mean for the club?

If Rapid signs El Azzouzi, he would step straight into the central role currently occupied by Amane, potentially strengthening the midfield’s defensive solidity. A successful deal would also signal that Rapid, despite its restrained approach, is ready to acquire quality where needed. The coming weeks will reveal whether a contract is signed or another suitor wins the race.