Who is Othmane Maamma? Moroccan forward who won U20 World Cup Golden Ball

Morocco won the U20 World Cup beating Argentina in the final!

Othmane Maamma led Morocco to their first-ever U20 World Cup trophy and was named the 2025 FIFA Under-20 World Cup’s best player.

In their 2-0 victory over Argentina in the final in Santiago, Maamma provided yet another assist, his fourth of the competition, to set up his team’s second goal. He recorded a total of 5 goal contributions (1 goal and 4 assists) in the tournament.

After that, it was revealed that the 20-year-old had won the Golden Ball, which is given to the competition’s best player.

Othmane Maamma, the best. ✨🇲🇦#U20WC pic.twitter.com/KRde2kbm2A

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) October 20, 2025

Othmane Maamma becomes the latest member of a distinguished group of players to win the award, which also includes Paul Pogba (2013), Sergio Aguero (2007), Lionel Messi (2005), and Diego Maradona (1979).

His performance in the competition helped Morocco to their first-ever trophy. The player’s display has undoubtedly garnered attention around Europe, and many clubs will be keeping tabs on his performance.

But how did he become one of the most talented football players, and how did he start his football career? Let’s find out.

Who is Othmane Maamma?

Othmane Maamma, a professional football player who plays forward for Watford, was born on October 6, 2005. He was born in France and plays youth international for Morocco.

Golden moment for Othmane Maamma 🏆Joining legends like Messi, Maradona, Agüero and Pogba as a U20 World Cup Golden Ball winner 👏 https://t.co/xoId6BgkIv pic.twitter.com/oQaaA8mvd6

— Watford Football Club (@WatfordFC) October 20, 2025

After stints at Athlétic Club Arlésien (2015–2016) and Nîmes Gazelec Sportif Gardois (2011–2015), he joined Montpellier’s development academy in 2016.

After being promoted to Montpellier’s first team in 2024, he played in 14 games across all competitions, contributing one assist and scoring two goals.

Watford paid €1.3 million for him during the most recent summer transfer window, although he hasn’t made his Championship debut yet. At the U20 World Cup, he has contributed four assists and one goal in five games.

According to the specialised website Transfermarkt, his market value is €1.3 million, but following his outstanding achievements at the U20 World Cup, that value is anticipated to rise drastically.

International career

Maamma was picked up by the Morocco under-20 team in March 2024 to play two friendly games against the United States and England under-19 teams. He participated in the England clash.

He now competed in the FIFA U20 World Cup in October 2025, helping Morocco’s under-20 team win the competition by leading the league in assists with four and scoring one goal.

Othmane Maamma’s playing style

Usually featuring on the right wing, Othmane Maamma’s versatility, straight dribbling, and rapid acceleration define his style of play. Using his speed to generate space and opportunities, he is a clever and effective attacker who thrives in one-on-one chances.

His ability to keep possession and create problems for defences is another important strength, in addition to his noteworthy goal threat. Although he has a great attacking flair, certain assessments indicate that his defensive and progressive passing could use some work.

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