Sofyan Amrabat: “I really wanted to play and win that final”
In this Interview, Sofyan Amrabat reveals his story is built on sacrifice, discipline, and unwavering pride. From his rise in Serie A to Morocco’s historic World Cup run, he embodies resilience both on and off the pitch. In this conversation, Amrabat reflects on belief, family, gratitude, and the moments that shaped the most defining chapter of his career.
Few tournaments leave a mark on football history the way Morocco’s World Cup run in Qatar did. For Amrabat, it was a journey defined by belief, sacrifice, and collective strength.
The last World Cup with Morocco put the entire world in ecstasy. How did you experience it?
Sofyan Amrabat: “It is the most beautiful thing there is. So many people were proud and people cried with joy. It was difficult to fully experience everything, because I was isolated in a hotel. For me it was all about recovery, training, eating, sleeping and treatment, everything to be ready for the next match. On matchdays it was different. When you looked into the stands, you saw pure happiness from the fans. I still get goosebumps thinking about it. It felt like home games with all the Moroccans present. They give you such an enormous boost. You just keep going, keep running. It is truly indescribable.”
Did you set a goal together before the tournament started?
“We were not going to say we would become world champions. But you are always allowed to dream. Our intention was to give everything and then see how far we could go. That group feeling grew, and the supporters stood behind us. Not just Moroccans, but almost the whole world. We had that goodwill factor. That made it such a beautiful tournament. I am still disappointed with how it ended though. I am a top athlete, a winner. I really wanted to play and win that final. We played against France, the reigning world champions at the time, and we were not inferior to them.”
How important was team spirit in that success?
“Very important. Maybe we did not play the most beautiful football at the World Cup, but look at how we fought, tracked back and switched. We knew how strong we were as a team. We could beat anyone and make it difficult for every opponent. If you believe, dream and work extremely hard, you can achieve anything. Nobody expected this from us.”
Was it difficult to still play the third-place match?
“It is always special to play a World Cup match. But the real final the day after is what it is all about. That makes the consolation final less fun. On the other hand, you still have the chance to become third. Unfortunately we did not succeed, but I can proudly say that Morocco finished among the four best countries in the world.”
Behind the warrior on the pitch stands a man deeply connected to family, belief, and humility. Throughout the tournament, those values became visible to the entire world.
On television we saw a very emotional moment between you and your brother. How would you describe that bond?
“It is fantastic. I am close with all my brothers, but especially with Nordin. We are both crazy about football. It was extra special that he and my parents were in the stands. After the match against Spain I saw them extremely emotional. You just break when you see your mother crying. She was so proud and happy. They also prayed that I could play despite my injury. When that happens and you win on penalties, it is unbelievable.”
We also saw the mothers enter the pitch first after the matches. Can you explain that special bond?
“That bond is an example for everyone. Nobody loves you the way a mother loves her child. She is the most important person in your life and she deserves to be part of those moments of joy.”
Away from the spotlight, Amrabat lives with perspective. Italy, travel, food, and thoughts about the future shape his life just as much as football does.
Can you describe how happy you are in Italy right now?
“I am very happy. It is a beautiful country and I play for a great club. I am very grateful. You should never compare yourself to people who have more, but to those who have less. When we play with Morocco in Africa, you see people who have nothing. Who are we to complain? We have food, drink and a roof over our heads. That is how I live. You should always be satisfied and grateful.”
Where do you get your happiest moments from?
“From my family, friends and good food. You really have to appreciate the simple things. But the most important thing is that you are healthy.”
Are you already thinking about life after football?
“I do think about the future, but I never look too far ahead. I try to get the maximum out of today. I did finish my diploma as a marketing employee, so maybe something in that direction. Or a salesman on the black market, haha. No joke, we will see.”
Ready for more?
Enjoyed reading about Sofyan Amrabat sharing his story in our exclusive interview? Read the full interview in our magazine issue 76.
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