Yassine Gessime's sensational start to the 2026-27 Ligue 1 season has already drawn comparisons with one of French football's most celebrated talents.
After scoring twice to lead Strasbourg to a 2-1 victory over Lens on Saturday, the young Moroccan forward was praised by Abou Diaby, who compared his qualities to those of former France international Hatem Ben Arfa.
For Gessime, the comparison carries a special meaning.
A Player He Has Always Admired
Speaking to Ligue 1 after the match, Gessime revealed that Ben Arfa has long been one of his biggest footballing inspirations.
The Moroccan forward explained that he would watch Ben Arfa's movements and skills before his own matches, using the French star as a reference for his own development.
- “Hatem is the best player I know. What he did was incredible. I used to watch him before my matches, study his movements and skills, and allow myself to follow his example because he is a top-class player.”
The 21-year-old added that being compared with Ben Arfa is particularly meaningful when the compliment comes from someone he respects.
- “When someone tells me I resemble him, it makes me very happy, especially when that praise comes from you.”
A Breakthrough Moment in Strasbourg
Gessime's comments come after perhaps his most impressive performance since joining Strasbourg.
The Moroccan forward scored in the 48th minute to bring his side level against Lens before returning in the 85th minute to complete the comeback and secure all three points.
His two goals not only delivered Strasbourg's first victory of the season but also placed Gessime firmly in the spotlight at the beginning of the new Ligue 1 campaign.
A Moroccan Talent Worth Watching
The forward's individual quality, close control, creativity, and ability to make things happen in the final third have quickly made him one of the exciting young Moroccan players to watch in France.
His journey has already included international success, having represented Morocco at youth level and been part of the squad that lifted the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
Now, he is taking another step forward with Strasbourg.
The Beginning of Something Special
Comparisons with Ben Arfa naturally bring significant expectations, but Gessime appears focused on developing his own identity and writing his own story.
For Moroccan football supporters, his emergence represents another exciting example of the talent continuing to flourish across the diaspora.
A brace, a comeback, and the admiration of one of his childhood inspirations, the new Ligue 1 season could hardly have offered Yassine Gessime a more exciting beginning.