Benatia gave an interview to La Gazzetta dello Sport discussing the Moroccan national team's situation.

Q: What's the secret behind Morocco's explosion of football talent?

A: First, there's a generation of talented players, and the Moroccan Football Federation knows how to develop them. At the same time, the strength of local youth players has been continuously improving. The opening of the Mohamed VI Football Academy in Sale was a turning point. Ounahi, Aguerd, and En-Nesyri all came from this top academy.

The academy prioritizes developing players individually before refining their technical skills. Currently, the spotlight is on Buhadi, who is destined to be the next star. The next one to emerge will be Iliman Ndiaye, the center-back at Reims. This young talent was born in 2006 and wasn't selected for this World Cup, but his talent is exceptional.

Q: What are Morocco's main strengths? What needs to improve to replicate their 2022 semi-final success?

A: The players have excellent technical ability. The team's defensive system has been well-trained, and every player fights with all their strength. We need to be more clinical in the penalty area: in the game against Brazil, we had chances to extend our lead but nearly let them come back. However, these intense matches help the team gain experience in important competitions and grow. Against the Netherlands, there won't be many chances. Every goal-scoring opportunity created must be taken.

Q: Can A. Hakimi become one of the greatest right-backs in football history?

A: In my opinion, absolutely. His level is comparable to Cafu and Maicon, but Cafu and Maicon couldn't score 10-15 goals in a single season. Hakimi can play as a midfielder and push forward, consistently contributing to goals. Even playing over 60 games in one season, his performance never drops.

Q: Brahim Diaz's recent form has been average. Is his inability to score affecting his mentality?

A: It probably is. Compared to El Khannouss, who is in good form, Brahim Diaz's current performance is slightly weaker. He tends to hold the ball too long and has unnecessary touches, but he's provided two spectacular assists for Saibari. His ability to turn and escape is unique.

Q: Can Morocco's substitutes match the strength of the starting players?

A: No, and that's normal. But the entire team has strong unity, and whenever needed, the substitutes deliver quality performances. Only France can rotate three or four squads with comparable quality.

Q: Do you regret not seeing Italy in this World Cup?

A: I regret it greatly. Italy holds a special place in my heart. The country gave me all the honor in my career, but the truth is Italy's top strikers aren't as strong as France's backup forwards. I hope Italian football will recover soon.

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

A: Absolutely. Ounahi is very talented, but Buhadi's talent stands out even more. He's a rare and exceptional talent. This young man is tactically ahead of his peers. His tactical understanding and pitch presence are mature beyond his years. He plays like a veteran with 300+ appearances already. His current market value is around 100 million euros. However, it would be difficult for Serie A clubs to sign him due to the high transfer fee.

Q: Do you think Azzedine Ounahi has grown since joining Serie A?

A: This player is strong both offensively and defensively. I still don't understand why he's played so little for AS Roma compared to my expectations. I tried to sign him when I was at Marseille, but the transfer offer at that time exceeded our budget.

Q: In the Round of 16, Morocco will face the Netherlands. If they win, their next opponent will be the winner of South Africa vs. Canada. Do they have a chance to reach the semi-finals and potentially face France?

A: The team has the potential to compete at every level. They're capable of filling fans with hope. I believe Morocco can go far in this World Cup, but of course, football results often depend on the moments that unfold on the pitch.

Q: Do you agree with the expanded World Cup format?

A: I'm not optimistic about it. There are too many matches. Some games lack entertainment value, and ticket prices are too high. Football should belong to the masses, not just a few wealthy people.

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

A: Not at all. I'm satisfied with my playing career and my current path in life. I watch games now, but since leaving Marseille, I haven't worked for any club. I'm very happy with my life as it is.

Q: During your time at Marseille, you negotiated a transfer with Giovanni Carnevale, who was then general manager of Sassuolo and is now general manager of Juventus FC. Do you think he's the right person to bring Juventus FC back to the top?

A: I'm 100% confident he can do it. Juventus FC's current management structure is very solid. Giorgio Chiellini has excellent vision, knows the club's history well, and understands the team's spirit. Carnevale is very capable. Roberto De Zerbi holds him in high regard, just as I do. During our transfer negotiations back then, I already saw that this manager was experienced, prudent, and good at making important decisions. Juventus FC's current situation is unfortunate, but I firmly believe the new management team can turn things around.

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