The Columbus Crew have officially signed Moroccan midfielder Anass Zaroury on loan from the Greek Super League club Panathinaikos, as announced by the team on Thursday. This move is part of the Crew's strategy to bolster their roster ahead of the upcoming 2027 MLS Sprint Season.
Zaroury, 25, brings a wealth of experience to the Crew, having made 216 professional appearances in his career, during which he has scored 37 goals and provided 21 assists. His professional journey began in Belgium, where he played for Lommel SK and Charleroi before moving to England, where he represented Burnley and Hull City. Additionally, he has spent time in France with Lens, showcasing his versatility across various European leagues.
On the international stage, Zaroury has earned four caps for the Moroccan national team and was part of the squad that competed in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Before committing to Morocco, he represented Belgium at youth levels, indicating his high potential from an early age.
Columbus Crew's general manager, Issa Tall, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, "Anass is a technical and audacious player who offers additional creativity and experience to our roster. He has showcased his skill set at various leagues in Europe, and we’re excited to welcome Anass to the Black & Gold." This sentiment reflects the Crew's intent to enhance their attacking options as they aim for success in the league.
This signing is part of a busy summer for the Crew, who have been active in the transfer market. The team has also brought in notable players such as Brais Méndez and Santiago Rodríguez as Designated Players, alongside center back Eric Bailly and striker Josef Martínez. These additions highlight the Crew's commitment to strengthening their squad as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season.
As the Crew continue to build a competitive team, Zaroury's arrival is expected to contribute significantly to their ambitions in Major League Soccer. With a mix of youth and experience, the Crew are positioning themselves as serious contenders in the league.
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