Neil El Aynaoui

Neil El Aynaoui carries a famous name: his father is Younes El Aynaoui, one of Morocco's greatest ever tennis players, who reached the Australian Open semi-finals and French Open quarter-finals. Neil chose football, and he chose his mother's nationality — French by birth, Moroccan by international allegiance — committing to the Atlas Lions and helping them win the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Born in Nancy in 2001, El Aynaoui progressed through his hometown club before signing for Lens in 2023 and developing into one of Ligue 1's most promising midfielders. Roma moved quickly to sign him in July 2025 on a five-year deal — a statement of intent about his potential. At 1.86m, he is a tall, athletic midfielder with good technical quality and an eye for goal.

He brings energy, intelligence, and a winning mentality forged in international competition to Roma's midfield. Still in the early stages of what promises to be a significant career, El Aynaoui is a player to watch closely.