Former Ajax wizard Hakim Ziyech has made a surprising move, joining Wydad Casablanca in Morocco! After leaving Al Duhail in Qatar in July, the 32-year-old is taking on a new challenge in a country where he has never played professionally. The club announced the signing on Thursday evening, with Ziyech scheduled to be presented at the Mohammed V complex on Sunday, 2 November.
This move represents a bold step for Ziyech, who, despite being born in the Netherlands, will be playing in Morocco for the first time. After successful spells at Heerenveen and Ajax, where he rose to global prominence during the Dutch side's Champions League run, he was signed by Chelsea in 2020 for a reported €40 million. However, he struggled to establish himself at Stamford Bridge and subsequently had loan spells and a permanent transfer to Galatasaray in Turkey, followed by a stint at Al Duhail.
A return to Europe nearly materialized with Cluj, but the transfer fell through due to a chronic knee injury detected during a medical examination. Now, Ziyech is aiming for a final chapter in his career in Morocco, just weeks before the start of the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) in Morocco. He was a key figure in the Atlas Lions' impressive run at the 2022 World Cup.
When can Ziyech make his debut? It's possible that Hakim Ziyech won't be able to play in the league until January. However, Wydad is trying to register him so that he can compete in continental competitions in November.
Key Takeaways:
- Hakim Ziyech joins Wydad Casablanca.
- He will be presented on Sunday, 2 November.
- Debut date possibly in January, club trying to register him for continental games sooner.