Morocco striker Yasser Al-Zabiri shines for Racing Santander after Rennes struggle

Moroccan striker Yasser Al-Zabiri has rediscovered his goalscoring touch after making an impressive start to life with Spanish side Racing Santander.

The Morocco international joined the newly promoted club during the summer transfer window after a difficult spell with French side Stade Rennais, where injuries, inconsistent opportunities and competition limited his involvement.

In Spain, however, the Under-20 World Cup champion has quickly found an environment that has allowed him to regain his confidence and express his qualities in front of goal.

From difficult Rennes spell to Spanish revival

Al-Zabiri arrived at Rennes with a growing reputation after playing a starring role in Morocco’s Under-20 World Cup triumph.

He scored both goals in Morocco’s final victory over Argentina and was rewarded with the Silver Ball for his performances at the tournament.

His time in Brittany proved more difficult, with injuries and a lack of consistency restricting his playing opportunities and leaving the striker on the sidelines for much of the season.

A move to Racing Santander has provided Al-Zabiri with the opportunity to start another chapter, and his performances have suggested he is ready to make the most of it.

Hat-trick announces Al-Zabiri’s arrival

The Moroccan made his intentions clear in his first start when he scored a hat-trick against Elche in the third round.

Each goal came in a different situation as Al-Zabiri repeatedly found the right positions in the final third, helping Racing Santander secure a 3-2 victory and three valuable points.

His performance earned him recognition in several Team of the Week selections for Matchday 3, but his goals against Elche proved to be only the beginning.

Against Alavés, Al-Zabiri again played a decisive role, scoring Racing’s equaliser in the 38th minute before finding the winning goal in the 53rd minute.

The brace took his league tally to five goals and quickly placed the Moroccan among the most effective forwards in the competition.

Moroccan striker showing more than goals

Al-Zabiri’s contribution has extended beyond his finishing.

The forward has appeared more confident and involved in matches, pressing opponents, making runs, offering passing options and dropping deeper to help his team defend and build attacks.

His technical and tactical education at the Mohammed VI Football Academy has helped him develop into a forward capable of contributing to different phases of play rather than simply waiting for chances inside the penalty area.

Yet it is his instinct in front of goal that remains his most valuable quality.

Against Alavés, his display earned him the Man of the Match award, while his strong start also saw him named Racing Santander’s Player of the Month for August.

Al-Zabiri attracting attention again

The Moroccan’s performances have also begun to attract interest beyond Spain, with reports linking him with several European clubs, particularly from England.

For now, though, Al-Zabiri remains focused on establishing himself at Racing Santander and maintaining the form that has brought his confidence back.

He is still at the beginning of his Spanish adventure and the season remains long, but the signs are encouraging for the Morocco international.

After a frustrating period in France, Al-Zabiri has already regained three important qualities for any striker: regular playing time, confidence and goals.