Montpellier HSC continues to place its trust in Naoufel El Hannach. The 19-year-old Moroccan central defender has officially signed on for a second consecutive season with the Hérault club in the form of a one-year loan, without an option to buy, from Paris Saint-Germain. This decision confirms the Parisian club’s intention to continue developing one of its young prospects while ensuring him regular playing time.
Already loaned to Montpellier during the 2025-2026 season, the U20 Moroccan international made a name for himself in the squad by playing 23 matches, including 19 in Ligue 2. His performances convinced the Montpellier management to seek his return to strengthen their defensive line with the goal of regaining their place in the elite of French football.
Trained at Paris Saint-Germain, where he has been since a young age, El Hannach is contracted to the capital club until June 2027. A two-time U19 French champion with the young Parisians, he is regarded as one of the most promising defenders of his generation. Versatile, he can play both in the center of defense and on the right side, a profile appreciated for his ability to initiate play, his speed, and his maturity despite his young age.
On the international stage, the Poissy native has chosen to represent Morocco. After wearing the colors of the U17 and U18 teams, he made a mark with the U20 Atlas Lions, who were runners-up in the U20 Africa Cup of Nations in 2025. This new loan represents another important step in his development, with the ambition of gaining experience before returning to PSG to try to establish himself there.
