Zabiri Reveals Youth World Cup Success Secret: 'Prayer and Parental Approval Drive Me Forward, My Dream is to Play for Barcelona'

Yasser Zabiri, one of the stars of the Moroccan U20 national team, revealed the secret behind his impressive performance at the Youth World Cup in an interview with Qatar's beIN Sports network, confirming his dream of one day wearing the Barcelona jersey.

Regarding his enrollment at the Mohammed VI Football Academy, Zabiri stated: "I consider this place my second home. I came here when I was only 10 years old and in the fourth grade. They welcomed me wonderfully and taught us everything we needed, both academically and in training. We were like brothers, given that we were far from our families."

Addressing the challenge of participating with the Moroccan U20 national team in the Youth World Cup, despite the possibility of losing his regular spot with his club, the player said: "It was difficult for me and for coach Mohamed Wahbi. However, I spoke with the coach and the team president, and I thank them for allowing me to participate because they knew I would have a great opportunity. I put my trust in God, and with prayer and parental approval, you move forward. Thank God, He was with me in this challenge."

Commenting on the secret behind his stellar performances in crucial matches with the Moroccan national team, Zabiri remarked: "It was hard work, the trust of the coach and all the players, and focus. There was great understanding among us. I was an attacker, but I also performed defensive duties."

Regarding the criticism directed at coach Mohamed Wahbi after losing the U20 Africa Cup of Nations title, Zabiri explained: "We always told him he was the best and gave him our full confidence. He succeeded in removing any envy from the group. He is a very hardworking coach, he listens to us and is very close to us. We hope to see him with the best clubs or national teams because he deserves it."

As for his goals after his success with the Moroccan U20 national team, he stated: "My dream is to play for Barcelona. I once attended one of their matches when the trio of Messi, Neymar, and Suarez were still with the team. Now, I will focus on my current team, score as many goals as possible, and work towards this dream (wearing the Barcelona jersey) which is still distant."