A breakout star of the U20 World Cup and scorer of a brace in the final, Yassir Zabiri spoke to the Spanish daily AS, reflecting on his journey, his ambitions, and his admiration for Spanish football. At just 20 years old, the Moroccan forward from Famalicão is now seen as one of the most promising talents of his generation.
A dream come true
“Football is everything I have,” says Zabiri, still riding the momentum of his U20 World Cup title. Trained in Marrakech and later at the Mohammed VI Academy, he considers the latter to be the real turning point in his life: “I owe a lot to the Academy. We had everything we needed to become professionals.”
Aguerd’s influence and the strength of the team
Very close to Nayef Aguerd, Zabiri highlights the impact of the senior national team defender during the tournament: “Nayef talked to me almost every day. His humility and experience inspire all of us.”
He recalls his brace in the final with emotion: “When I scored the free kick, I couldn’t believe it. And the second one… I don’t even remember how I celebrated!”
He also points to the staff’s preparation: “We knew Argentina would try to provoke us. We never fell into the trap.”
The senior national team on his mind
Zabiri does not hide his desire to take the next step: “I’m ready, but the decision is up to Hoalid Regragui. My job is to play, improve, and show what I can do.”
He dreams of participating in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco: “Who wouldn’t dream of a home AFCON? I’ll do everything I can to earn my place.”
LaLiga and Barça, his inspirations since childhood
A lifelong FC Barcelona fan, Zabiri shared with AS his deep admiration for Spanish football: “LaLiga is beautiful and spectacular football. Messi is a legend for everyone.”
His offensive role models include Luis Suárez and Antoine Griezmann, whose versatility he admires.
Ambition and loyalty to Marrakech
Zabiri ultimately aims to join a “mid-tier or big” club playing European competitions: “The demands of top clubs push you to progress.”
But he keeps a personal dream close to his heart: “One day, I’d like to return to KAC Marrakech with enough strength to truly help the club.”
Humble, hardworking, ambitious, and already decisive in key moments, Zabiri continues to confirm that he is one of the emerging faces of Morocco’s golden football generation.
