Wydad Sign Burkina Faso Defender Issoufou Dayo on One-Year Deal

Rabat – Wydad Athletic Club have announced the signing of Burkina Faso international Issoufou Dayo on a one-year contract, strengthening their defensive options ahead of the 2026-27 season.

The 35-year-old centre-back joins the Casablanca club on a free transfer following his departure from Qatari side Umm Salal.

Reports published on Wednesday indicate that Dayo’s agreement includes an option to extend his stay for an additional season, although that provision was not specified in Wydad’s initial announcement.

The transfer marks Dayo’s return to Morocco, where he established himself during a lengthy and successful spell with Renaissance Berkane.

His arrival is part of Wydad’s efforts to rebuild their squad during the summer transfer window, with the club bringing in several experienced players ahead of the new campaign.

Dayo returns to Moroccan football

Dayo joined Renaissance Berkane in 2016 and became a central figure in the club’s rise in domestic and continental football.

During his time with the Orange Boys, the defender helped the club win three CAF Confederation Cup titles, in 2020, 2022 and 2025.

He was also part of the Berkane squad that secured the club’s first Moroccan league title in the 2024-25 season.

The Burkina Faso international left Berkane for Umm Salal in August 2025, bringing an end to nearly a decade with the Moroccan side.

Before completing his move to Wydad, Dayo had reportedly been close to joining Moghreb Tétouan.

Wydad continue summer rebuilding

Dayo’s signing adds to a series of changes at Wydad as the Casablanca club prepares for the new season.

The club has already brought back several familiar names, including former captain Yahya Jabrane, left-back Yahya Attiat-Allah and midfielder Aymane El Hassouni.

All three returned on one-year contracts as part of the club’s recruitment strategy, which combines experienced players with younger additions.

Wydad also announced the signing of winger Yassine Jabrane from Olympique Dcheira on Wednesday, with the 26-year-old agreeing to a three-year contract.

Dayo will now seek to establish himself in Wydad’s defence, bringing extensive experience from Moroccan football and continental competitions to the Casablanca club’s new-look squad.