The soccer level in Morocco is high. I had the chance to play a lot of games in First Division. I also took part in the African Cup, which brings together the best clubs in Africa, and also Throne Cup games, so I improved a lot. Back then, I was playing 11 months per year so I was in great shape and I was developing faster.
Why did you leave Morocco to come try out here in North America? And why in Montreal?
I think that I simply needed a change. I quit the KACM during the championship (after 18 out of 30 games). I left everything behind: my team, my family, my friends. I knew the Impact from a friend and from Internet. Two days after my departure from Morocco, I was trying out with the club. I’m still receiving calls from Moroccan teams, asking me to sign with them, but I refuse because I want to play soccer here.
Did you have regrets after your departure?
I did regret my choice in the beginning, but today that is no longer the case. I have decided to live here. I’m cooking tajines (a traditional Moroccan meal made with vegetables, meat and spices) and it reminds me of Morocco. But I miss the beach a lot. I was playing beach soccer almost every day. Here, the winters are cold, but I think that I will get used to it.
After not playing a single game in 2006, you participated in nine match-ups with more than 300 minutes this season. Are you pleased with the way things turned out?
Yes, I’m happy to be part of the team and to help the club. I was waiting for my chance and this year I got it. It's unfortunate that it had to happen because some players got injured. I would never wish that one of my teammates get hurt to be on the field.
You usually play as defender but sometimes as forward. Is it a position that you like?
My favourite position is central defender, but Nick (De Santis) has used me a few times at the end of the game as forward to help the team score. It’s a position that I also like. In 2006, I scored two goals with the Laval Dynamites (Canadian Soccer League).
What goals have you set yourself with the Impact?
I would like to score a goal with the Impact, at home if possible. I would also like to win the playoff championship. I have seen photos of the 2004 championship and I would like to live that. I really want what’s best for the team.
Do you think that one day soccer here will be as popular as in Morocco?
The Impact’s organization is very professional and it has all the elements to become a great club. Soccer isn’t rooted in Canadian culture as in Morocco yet, but I think that the arrival of David Beckham, for example, will help soccer develop in North America. I also think that a Canadian championship is key for the the sport to grow in this country.
What are your post-career projects?
After my career as a player, I would like to stay in soccer with the Impact soccer schools. I like showing kids what I know. I learned a lot from two great coaches I met: Badou Zaki and Henri Michel. Like them, I like sharing my knowledge so that others can benefit from it.
