Yanis Bakraoui proud of Benzema comparisons, targets World Cup glory with Morocco

Moroccan international Yanis Bakraoui has spoken about his playing philosophy and long-term ambitions, emphasising that he does not see himself as a traditional striker who simply waits for opportunities inside the penalty area.

Instead, he views his role as a forward who contributes to the creation of chances and helps his team control the flow of the game.

The Estoril Praia forward explained in an interview with the Spanish newspaper AS that his current goal-scoring form this season has not surprised him. According to the player, he prefers operating between the lines and participating in the buildup of attacks rather than limiting himself to the role of a pure striker waiting inside the box.

Bakraoui noted that his approach to the game has remained consistent throughout his career. He said he has never considered himself a player who waits for crosses or passes in the penalty area, adding that he enjoys helping create opportunities for teammates and being involved in attacking moves. In his view, the most important objective is always the team’s victory.

The Moroccan striker also reflected on his early relationship with football, explaining that he grew up in France in an environment where the sport was a constant presence in everyday life. Like many children in his surroundings, he spent much of his childhood playing the game and developing his skills.

Bakraoui also addressed comparisons that have been made between his playing style and that of French star Karim Benzema. Since he arrived in Portuguese football, several observers have pointed out similarities between the two forwards.

“When I arrived in Portugal, many people talked about this because of the similarities between my playing style and Benzema’s, and he’s a great player. I have a story from my time in Ajaccio. I played a match with the reserve team against Lyon and scored three goals. Everyone at Lyon was saying to me, ‘Oh, he’s the new Benzema, the new Benzema!’ I try to learn a lot from him, but everyone knows how much he’s improved. I like his style, I like his way of playing. I don’t like to just stay inside the penalty area and score; I prefer to help my team, sometimes in different ways and in different situations. The most important thing is that the team wins,” he noted.

When speaking about the forwards he admires most, Bakraoui pointed to players who combine intelligence, movement and technical quality. He highlighted Karim Benzema and Harry Kane as examples of complete strikers, while also expressing admiration for Spanish legend Raúl.

Looking ahead, the Moroccan forward said he hopes to one day compete in one of Europe’s major leagues. For now, however, he remains focused on performing well with his current club, believing that opportunities naturally come to players who continue to work hard and deliver strong performances.

Bakraoui also explained that his decision to represent the Morocco national football team was influenced by his family roots, describing the opportunity to wear the national jersey as a great honour.

He concluded by saying that taking part in the FIFA World Cup remains one of his biggest dreams. The striker added that he will continue striving to reach that stage and hopes to score his first goal for Morocco in the future.