Benatia: Hakimi can be among the best right-backs in history, comparable to Cafu and Maicon

Benatia was interviewed by La Gazzetta dello Sport, discussing the situation of the Moroccan national team.

Q: What is the secret to the emergence of Moroccan football talent?

A: First, there's a generation of talented players, and the Moroccan Football Federation is very good at developing them. At the same time, the strength of young players produced domestically continues to improve. The opening of the Mohammed VI Football Academy in Salé was a key turning point. Ounahi, Aguerd, and En-Nesyri all came from this elite youth academy.

The academy emphasizes education alongside football development. Now, the spotlight is on Bouadi, who is destined to become a top star. The next prospect to watch is Rennes center-back Ait-Boudlal. Born in 2006, this young player missed this World Cup, but his potential is outstanding.

Q: What is the core strength of this Moroccan team, and what needs to improve to replicate their 2022 semi-final run?

A: The players have excellent technical ability, the team's defensive organization is solid, and every player gives maximum effort. We need to be more clinical in the box: against Brazil, we had chances to extend our lead but were nearly punished on the counter. However, these high-intensity matches help the team build experience in major tournaments and develop maturity. Against the Netherlands, opportunities will be limited, so we must convert every chance we create.

Q: Can Hakimi be considered among the best right-backs in football history?

A: Absolutely, in my opinion. His level is comparable to Cafu and Maicon. But neither Cafu nor Maicon could score 10-15 goals in a single season. Hakimi can play as a midfielder, push forward, and consistently contribute goals. Even playing over 60 games in a season, his performances never drop off.

Q: Brahim's recent form has been poor. Is his lack of goals affecting his confidence?

A: Most likely. Compared to an in-form El Khannouss, Brahim's current performances are slightly below par. He holds the ball too long and takes too many unnecessary touches. That said, he provided two excellent assists for Saibari and has a unique ability to turn and escape defenders.

Q: Can Morocco's substitute players match the quality of the starters?

A: No, and that's normal. But the entire squad has very strong cohesion, and whenever called upon, the substitutes always deliver solid performances. Only France can field three or four complete rotation lineups of comparable quality.

Q: Do you regret Italy's absence from this World Cup?

A: I regret it deeply. Italy holds a special place in my heart; that country gave me everything in my career. But the reality is that Italy's top strikers aren't performing at the level of France's backup forwards. I sincerely hope Italian football recovers soon.

Q: Would you recommend Bouadi and Ounahi to Serie A clubs?

A: Of course, Ounahi is very capable. Bouadi is even more outstanding; he's a rare and exceptional talent. This young man's mentality far surpasses his peers. His tactical understanding and presence on the pitch are very mature, and he performs like a veteran with 300 professional matches under his belt. His market value has reached €100 million. However, it will be difficult for Serie A clubs to sign him given the transfer fee.

Q: Do you think El Ahmadi has progressed since joining Serie A?

A: This player is strong both offensively and defensively. I still can't understand why his playing time at Roma was much less than expected. I tried to sign him when I was at Marseille, but the transfer bid exceeded our budget at the time.

Q: In the Round of 16, Morocco faces the Netherlands. If they win, they'll face the winner of South Africa vs. Canada. Does the team have a realistic chance of reaching the quarterfinals and potentially facing France?

A: This team has the potential to challenge for anything. They give fans every reason to be optimistic. I believe Morocco can go far in this World Cup, though football often depends on decisive moments in key matches.

Q: Do you support the expanded World Cup format?

A: I'm skeptical. There are too many matches, some games lack quality, and ticket prices are prohibitive. Football should belong to everyone, not just the wealthy.

Q: Messi is two months younger than you, and Cristiano Ronaldo is older. Many players your age are still active. Do you miss playing?

A: Not at all. I'm very satisfied with my playing career and my current life. I watch football, but since leaving Marseille, I haven't worked for any club, and I'm content with this stage of my life.

Q: During your time at Marseille, you negotiated transfers with Giovanni Carnevali, then Sassuolo's general manager and now Juventus's general manager. Do you think he's the right person to restore Juventus to their former glory?

A: I'm 100% confident he can. Juventus's current management structure is very sound. Giorgio Chiellini has excellent vision, understands the club's history deeply, and embodies the team's spirit.

Carnevali is extremely capable; Roberto De Zerbi spoke very highly of him. During our transfer discussions, I could see he's experienced, composed, and makes good key decisions. Juventus's current situation is unfortunate, but I'm convinced the new management can turn things around.

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