Moroccan winger Achraf Bencharki expressed his happiness in an interview after joining Egyptian giants Al Ahly, highlighting his ambition to win titles and compete in major tournaments like the FIFA Club World Cup.
Bencharki spoke about Al Ahly’s huge fanbase, admitting that he once felt terrified when playing against their team. He also mentioned his Moroccan teammates at the club: Yahia Attiyat Allah, Achraf Dari, and Reda Slim.
In an interview with Al Ahly’s official website and media platforms, Bencharki stated:
"I would like to express my great happiness in joining Al Ahly. This decision was made after serious consideration, and I am truly delighted to be part of the Club of the Century, a team with a rich history and remarkable achievements at African, Arab, and global levels."
He added:
"I chose to move to Al Ahly because I seek to win titles and compete in major tournaments, primarily the CAF Champions League and the FIFA Club World Cup. To be honest, any player dreams of being part of this great institution. Al Ahly is a massive club, and its name alone speaks for its value. It does not need anyone to introduce it, as it is always present in major competitions and contends for all trophies."
Achieving titles with Al Ahly
Bencharki emphasized his hunger for trophies, saying:
"I joined the team because I want to win championships. I am a player who loves big challenges, and I know that Al Ahly enters every tournament with the goal of standing on the podium. This is my ambition, and I want to be part of this success, contributing to winning more titles for the club."
He continued:
"When I first entered Al Ahly and saw the vast number of trophies and titles the club has won throughout its history, I felt an incredible sense of pride. I realized the magnitude of achievements built over years of hard work and dedication. Al Ahly is always accustomed to winning trophies, aiming for championships every season. Any ambitious and passionate player would undoubtedly want to be part of this great history."
FIFA Club World Cup ambitions
Speaking about the FIFA Club World Cup, Bencharki said:
"One of my main goals was to play in the FIFA Club World Cup. This tournament is a dream for any player, as it features the best clubs from different continents. It is a great opportunity for us as players to showcase our talents and compete against top teams from around the world. Our goal in this tournament is clear—to go as far as possible. We know the challenges ahead, but we are ready. We play under the name of the Club of the Century, and everyone knows that Al Ahly does not participate in any competition unless it aims to win the title."
He continued:
"Facing Inter Miami in the tournament’s opening match will be a strong challenge. However, we play under the name of Al Ahly, and our opponents certainly respect this big name just as we respect them. Al Ahly is a club with a great history, and every team that faces us knows our value. We enter every match with one goal only—winning. This is the mentality I will adopt throughout my journey with the team."
On his Moroccan teammates
Bencharki also spoke about his fellow Moroccans at Al Ahly:
"The team includes Achraf Dari, Yahia Attiyat Allah, and Reda Slim. We have played together, whether in the Moroccan national team or in our previous clubs, and we share a strong bond. This will help me adapt quickly to the club's atmosphere. Having players from my country makes me feel more comfortable."
On Al Ahly’s fans
Regarding Al Ahly’s supporters, he said:
"I know very well how passionate and loyal they are to their club. I have seen it firsthand when I played against Al Ahly before. I still remember playing at Borg El Arab Stadium when the stands were packed with Al Ahly fans cheering with incredible energy. It was an overwhelming atmosphere that honestly made me feel terrified. That moment made me realize how deeply connected the fans are to the club."
He continued:
"Al Ahly’s supporters are devoted to their team and stand by it at all times. As players, we fully understand their value, and we will give everything we have to make them happy by winning the trophies they deserve. I will work hard on the pitch and give my best to meet their expectations. I hope we can achieve many successes and titles together because Al Ahly is always used to winning, and its fans accept nothing less than championships."
Bencharki’s transfer details
Achraf Bencharki joined Al Ahly during the current winter transfer window on a free transfer. He signed a two-and-a-half-year contract after paying the release clause to terminate his contract with Qatari club Al Rayyan.
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