Mehdi Benatia praises Morocco’s football academy model and rising stars

Former Moroccan captain Mehdi Benatia said the national team’s recent success rests on a talent‑focused system built around the Mohammed VI Academy in Salé. He highlighted players such as Achraf Hakimi – whom he likened to legendary full‑backs Cafu and Maicon – as well as young prospects Lamine Bouaddi (born 2007, valued around €100 million) and Rennes centre‑back Ait Boudlal (born 2006).

Benatia praised the academy’s emphasis on personal development before football skill, noting it has produced Ounahi, Aguerd and En‑Nesyri. He called for more “cynicism in the penalty area” to capitalize on chances, recalling Morocco’s historic 2022 World Cup semi‑final run. He also expressed disappointment at Italy’s absence from major tournaments, stressing a perceived gap in Italian attacking talent.

Overall, Benatia described the model as a “first‑class structure” that could sustain Morocco’s rise on the international stage.