Crystal Palace Signs Young Defender Taha Mejni from Ittihad Touarga
Crystal Palace have moved early to secure one of North African football’s most intriguing young defenders, completing the signing of Morocco youth international Taha Mejni from Ittihad Touarga.
The 18-year-old arrives in south London with senior minutes, a world title at youth level and a reputation for toughness and technique rolled into one.
From Rabat to south London
Mejni came through the academy at Ittihad Touarga and broke into the first team in June 2025, making his senior debut in an Excellence Cup semi-final win over Wydad Fez. It was a bold stage for a first appearance, but he kept his place in the picture.
Crystal Palace described him as “a versatile player capable of playing at centre-back or right-back,” noting that he has already featured in 17 senior matches for the Moroccan club, 15 of them last season and 13 as a starter. Those games, in a physically demanding top flight, have clearly shaped the defender Palace believe they have signed.
The club also underlined his pedigree on the international scene. Mejni was part of Morocco’s historic Under-20 World Cup triumph in Chile last year, a landmark success that delivered the country its first title at that level.
Still only 17 during that tournament, he helped a fearless Morocco youth side beat Brazil, Spain, France and Argentina on their way to lifting the trophy. That run alone would have put his name in scouting reports across Europe.
Since then, his rise has continued. Mejni has stepped up to Morocco’s Under-23 squad, earning two caps in March, including a start in a 2-2 draw with Ivory Coast.
Palace’s plan for a “multi-talented defender”
Palace have a clear pathway in mind. Mejni will join Darren Powell’s Under-21 side, where he is set to feature in Premier League 2, the Premier League International Cup and the EFL Trophy. It is a demanding schedule and exactly the kind of environment the club believes will sharpen his game.
In the club’s announcement, they relayed how Mejni sees himself: a defender with strong technical qualities who relishes the physical battle. That blend fits neatly with the profile Crystal Palace have increasingly targeted in their academy and development squads.
After signing his contract, Mejni did not hide his excitement at the move.
“Crystal Palace is one of the biggest clubs in the Premier League and around the world. They have achieved a great deal in recent years, so I am very excited to begin this new adventure with the club,” he said.
Palace academy director Gary Issott highlighted both the player’s present level and his potential.
“Taha enjoyed an excellent 25-26 season and gained valuable experience in the Moroccan first division, and he helped Morocco win the Under-20 World Cup at just 17 years old,” Issott said.
“He is a multi-talented defender who impressed us with his performances, and we believe Crystal Palace is the right environment for him to continue his development. Welcome, Taha!”
A heartfelt farewell
While Palace fans look ahead, Mejni took time to look back. Before crossing continents, he posted an emotional farewell to Ittihad Touarga on Instagram, reflecting on the club that shaped him.
“After 5 wonderful years, the time has come for me to begin a new and important chapter in my life,” he wrote, thanking the club “for its trust in me, for the opportunities it gave me, and for all the memories that helped me grow, both on and off the pitch.”
He reserved special words for the coaches who backed him and the dressing room that became home.
“I also extend my thanks to my coaches for their advice, their patience and their trust, which helped me grow as a player and as a person,” he added.
“Many thanks to my team-mates and friends. We shared unforgettable moments, and some of you became like brothers to me.”
The message was soaked in gratitude.
“I leave feeling a great deal of gratitude, pride and beautiful memories. Thank you to everyone who believed in me and to those who continue to keep the club’s spirit alive every day,” he said.
He signed off with a final salute to the badge he leaves behind: “Thank you for everything, Ittihad Tanger. I will always be proud to have worn these colours. A new page opens, but the story continues. Forever grateful.”
Now the new page has a clear heading: Crystal Palace. The question is how quickly this world champion in miniature can turn youth promise into Premier League reality.
