Moroccan defender Omar Hilali has expressed his pride at playing for Espanyol in Spain’s top division, pointing out that he had refused to join Barcelona twice.
Al-Hilali is considered one of the Catalan team’s most notable emerging talents, having featured in 9 league matches this season (2024-2025).
Al-Hilali: “I rejected Barcelona because I like Espanyol. »
In an interview with the newspaper “Sports WorldSpeaking in Spanish, Al-Hilali revealed details of his refusal to join Barcelona, saying: “I received two offers from Barcelona, one before joining the Espanyol Academy, and the second after my promotion. the youth team.
Despite the tempting offers, Al-Hilali confirmed he hadn’t even thought about it, explaining: “I’m an Espanyol fan. »
💥❌ “There is no room in the bar, I’m not touching it”
❤️ “I love it 100%, I love it”
📹 Omar El Hilali, player of @RCDEspanyol, at #QTJ!#RCDE pic.twitter.com/9KZC57l58M
– Que T’hi Jugues (@QueThiJugues) October 9, 2024
His international career and his selection in Morocco
Al-Hilali is considered one of the distinguished players at the right-back position, in addition to his ability to play at the heart of the defense and left-back.
At the international level, Al-Hilali holds Moroccan and Spanish nationalities, but he chose to represent the Moroccan national team.
He played 7 matches with the Moroccan U-20 national team and 4 matches with the U-23 national team.
He was also part of the Moroccan national team that won the U-23 Africa Cup of Nations, but he was unable to participate in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Long-term commitment with Espanyol
Al-Hilali’s contract with Espanyol extends until June 30, 2027, while his current market value is two million euros, according to the Transfer Market website.
Al-Hilali confirmed that he is considering his future with Espanyol and feels very happy to continue with the club he considers his home.
