Rabat – Moroccan striker Yasser Zabiri has set his sights on representing the Atlas Lions at the next Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after completing his move to Spanish side Racing Santander.
Speaking during his official presentation on Wednesday, the 21-year-old said he hopes to enjoy a strong season in Spain and believes consistent performances with Racing Santander will help him secure a place in Morocco’s national team.
“The way Racing Santander plays is what convinced me to come here,” Zabiri said. “I also really like Spain, and I believe this is the right environment for me.”
Strong ambitions
The former Mohammed VI Football Academy graduate said his immediate objective is to help the club achieve a successful campaign while contributing with goals.
“I want to help the team, have a great season, and score a lot of goals just like my teammates,” he said, adding that he hopes supporters will quickly discover his qualities during the club’s preseason matches.
Zabiri revealed that he received several offers before leaving French club Stade Rennais, but Racing Santander’s interest made his decision straightforward. He cited the club’s playing philosophy and the technical style of Spanish football as the main reasons behind his choice.
The Moroccan forward also shared his personal ambitions for the 2026-2027 season, setting a target of scoring at least 10 goals.
He explained that Spanish football’s emphasis on teamwork and fluid passing suits his style better than French football, which he described as more focused on individual duels and physical battles.
Zabiri added that he is in good physical condition and continues to work on improving his fitness ahead of the new season.
On the international stage, the young striker expressed his desire to establish himself with Morocco and earn a place in the squad for the upcoming AFCON tournament.
Representing Morocco at major continental competitions, he said, remains one of his biggest career goals.
A player fits the club
Racing Santander sporting director Chema Aragón welcomed the signing, describing Zabiri as a player whose profile fits the club’s identity.
“He has the qualities we were looking for,” Aragón said. “He moves well into space, finishes chances effectively, is intelligent, and adapts quickly.”
Zabiri joins Racing Santander on a season-long loan from Stade Rennais after a career path that has taken him from the Mohammed VI Football Academy to Morocco’s Union Touarga, Portuguese side Famalicão, and the French league.
The striker, who was part of Morocco’s FIFA U-20 World Cup-winning squad, now hopes his first season in Spanish football will become the platform for both club success and a breakthrough with the Atlas Lions.
