veteran Moroccan striker Youssef El Arabi defies age to clinch top scorer honour in Cyprus

Youssef El Arabi has proven once again that age is no barrier to excellence, finishing the season as the top scorer in the Cypriot First Division at 38 years old.

The veteran Moroccan striker, who joined APOEL Nicosia last summer after a successful five-year spell at Olympiakos, found the net 13 times in league play to claim the prestigious individual accolade.

His tally came after a tightly contested race for the Golden Boot, edging out closest challengers Rafael Lopes and Mariusz Stępiński, who each concluded the campaign with 12 goals.

El Arabi featured in 21 regular-season matches and made 10 further appearances in the league’s title play-off round.

His impact extended beyond just goals, providing three assists across the domestic league season and playing a pivotal role in APOEL’s attacking efforts.

In European competition, El Arabi continued to demonstrate his value on the continental stage.

He scored once in the UEFA Europa League and added three assists in the UEFA Europa Conference League.

Additionally, he registered an assist in the Cypriot Super Cup, bringing his total assists across all competitions to seven for the season.

The Moroccan forward’s performances underline his enduring class and adaptability, even as he approaches the twilight of his career.

Having left Olympiakos with a strong legacy, El Arabi has quickly established himself as a key figure at APOEL, leading the club’s frontline with experience and clinical finishing.

His latest achievement adds to an already distinguished career.

El Arabi previously represented Morocco at international level and has had notable spells in France, Spain, Saudi Arabia, and Greece.

Despite the physical demands of the modern game, he continues to produce at a high level, setting an example for both his teammates and a younger generation of footballers.

With the Cypriot league season now concluded, El Arabi’s future remains a topic of interest.

Whether he continues with APOEL or takes on a new challenge, his contribution this season will not be easily forgotten.

In a campaign marked by determination, consistency, and leadership, Youssef El Arabi has not only claimed the top scorer title but also reaffirmed his reputation as one of the most enduring strikers of his generation.