Neil El Aynaoui has caught the attention of two of England's top clubs during his World Cup campaign with Morocco. The Roma midfielder was born on 2 July and is celebrating his birthday by competing in the tournament after Morocco knocked the Netherlands out on penalties and reached the Round of 16.
Manchester United and Liverpool scouts have been impressed by El Aynaoui's defensive discipline and athleticism on the international stage. His performances in Morocco's group stage victories over Scotland and Haiti, plus the elimination of the Netherlands, have demonstrated the midfielder's quality at tournament level.
El Aynaoui arrived at Roma from RC Lens for €23.5m plus add-ons in 2025, accumulating 34 competitive appearances with two goals and two assists despite some injuries. Gian Piero Gasperini has indicated El Aynaoui possesses significant potential but requires continued development within the club's system.
Roma may face significant pressure to retain the midfielder if either Manchester club crystallizes their interest into a formal offer, particularly given El Aynaoui's World Cup-stage visibility affecting his market valuation.
Liverpool
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