Mustapha Hadji has praised the progress of fellow Morocco international Yassir Zabiri, predicting that the Racing Santander forward can develop into one of the country’s leading centre-forwards.

The former Morocco international and 1990s African Ballon d’Or winner has been following the 21-year-old’s development closely in Spain. Speaking to Maghreb-Foot, Hadji highlighted Zabiri’s individual qualities and said he watches a large proportion of the matches played by the young striker.

Hadji first took notice of Zabiri’s ability during the U20 World Cup, where the forward’s performances made a strong impression. He believes the player’s recent rise reflects the work and determination he has shown in his development.

The former Morocco star added that, if Zabiri maintains the same level of effort and continues to progress, he can soon join the ranks of the country’s most distinguished strikers.

Zabiri’s growing reputation has attracted increased attention following an impressive start to the season with Racing Santander. His performances have helped establish him as one of the emerging Moroccan attacking talents playing in Spain.

Racing Santander are due to face Espanyol in their 10th matchday fixture of the Spanish championship. The match has been listed with odds of 2.30 for a Racing Santander victory, 3.40 for a draw and 2.55 for an Espanyol win by 1xbet.