Morocco World Cup Stars Hakimi and Bounou Featured on GQ Middle East Cover

Through a colorful and elegant photo shoot, the two Moroccan players talked about their passion for football and their love for their country: Morocco. "My beloved country and our Moroccan flag are in the global spotlight. The love and support the team and I received from Moroccan fans, the African continent, the Arab world and the world at large was truly amazing," said Yassine Bounou, the Moroccan goalkeeper who plays for Sevilla FC.

He was one of the best goalkeepers in the World Cup. His heroic performance in the match against Spain will long be etched in people’s memories. He is proud of each of his teammates and the fact that he can count on each of them. "We support each other, we take care of each other, we celebrate each other."

For Yassine Bounou, there is nothing greater than defending the colors of his country. "I am Moroccan, I grew up in Morocco and I have strong ties to my Moroccan identity with a lot of pride and gratitude. I want the next generation of young Moroccans to believe in themselves and their dreams," he stressed.

For his part, Achraf Hakimi reiterated his pride in "wearing the Moroccan jersey and representing millions of Moroccans". The Moroccan right-back who plays for PSG confided that he fights to fulfill the sacrifice made by his family so that he can succeed. "The best advice I can give to the next generation is to enjoy their lives, work hard and allow themselves to dream of anything they might want to achieve in the future. [...] And no one can tell them that they cannot achieve it, because all dreams can come true - I am an example of that. I have always dreamed of being a footballer and today I have the chance to be one. With hard work and determination, anything can be achieved."

Like his teammates on the national team, Achraf Hakimi is barely realizing Morocco’s performance at the World Cup. "The truth is, I feel so happy about everything that’s happening right now. [...] I’m trying to take it slowly, just like I’ve done so far. And most importantly, I’m trying to enjoy every moment," he said.