Akram Jadid’s invitation to train with AC Milan’s first team has reignited memories of Hachim Mastour. The excitement is easy to understand: Jadid is just 15, and reports claim he’s scored nearly 700 goals in Milan’s youth ranks. But Milan’s recent history with prodigies offers a clear warning.
Jadid’s numbers are eye-catching. Born in 2011, he’s already played above his age group and featured for Milan’s Under 17s. Last season, he helped the Under 15s win a title, a team achievement that says more than any individual stat. Mastour, too, trained with Milan’s professionals at 15, but the hype never translated into a top-level career.
Jadid’s rise is impressive, but the story is still being written.
Jadid’s Profile Explains Milan’s First-Team Interest
A closer look at Jadid’s game reveals why Milan is intrigued. He’s described as powerful with his back to goal, explosive in open space, comfortable dribbling, and ruthless in front of goal. That skill set makes him more than just a poacher, he can link play, threaten on the break, and create his own chances.
A forward who can hold up the ball under pressure gives his team a valuable outlet in attack. When space opens up, his acceleration becomes a weapon, especially against high defensive lines. Add in his dribbling and finishing, and it’s clear why he’s dominated youth football.
Still, 700 goals in youth categories don’t guarantee first-team success. At 15, he’s just beginning to face the physical and tactical demands of senior football. Milan’s decision to invite him to train with the first team signals belief in his potential, not a prediction of stardom.
Winning the Under 15 title last season shows he’s contributed to a winning environment, not just padded his stats. Milan’s move to test him at a higher level continues a steady progression through the academy.
Mastour’s Path Provides the Necessary Caution
Mastour’s story hangs over every Milan wonderkid. Like Jadid, he was an Italian-Moroccan prospect who trained with the first team at 15. By 16, he’d signed a professional contract, and his technical skills made him a viral sensation. Top European clubs lined up to sign him.
But Mastour’s career never took off. Loans to Malaga and Zwolle fizzled. He made a single appearance for Morocco’s senior team in 2015, coming on for Nordin Amrabat against Libya, and never built on that debut.
| Player | First-team Milan training age | International record cited | Career development cited |
|---|---|---|---|
| Akram Jadid | 15 | Two Morocco Under 16 appearances | Regularly played above his age group, including Under 17 football |
| Hachim Mastour | 15 | One Morocco senior appearance | Unsuccessful loans at Malaga and Zwolle |
Mastour’s trajectory became a cautionary tale about the dangers of early hype. For Jadid, the lesson is clear: progress through each stage, don’t chase headlines or comparisons.
Jadid’s background adds another layer. He’s the son of Rachid Jadid, a former player who has lived in Italy since 1991. Developed entirely in Italian football, Akram already represents Morocco at Under 16 level, with two appearances. Italy is reportedly keeping tabs on him as well, so his Milan breakthrough has also intensified interest in his international future.