What's Happening?
Hakim Ziyech, a former Chelsea star and Moroccan international, has signed with Wydad Casablanca, marking a return to his roots. Ziyech, who was born in the Netherlands, played for the Netherlands up to the U21 level before representing Morocco at the international level.
He was a key player in Morocco's historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup. Ziyech joined Chelsea in 2020 and was part of the team that won the Champions League in the 2020/21 season. After a failed transfer to Paris Saint-Germain in January 2023 due to an administrative error, Ziyech moved to Galatasaray, where he won the Super Lig twice, and later had a brief stint with Al Duhail in Qatar. As a free agent, Ziyech has now signed with Wydad Casablanca, a club that recently competed in the expanded Club World Cup.
Why It's Important?
Ziyech's move to Wydad Casablanca is significant as it highlights a trend of players returning to their roots towards the end of their careers. For Wydad Casablanca, acquiring a player of Ziyech's caliber could boost their performance in domestic and continental competitions. This move also underscores the growing appeal of African clubs in attracting top talent, which could enhance the competitiveness of leagues in the region. For Ziyech, playing in Morocco aligns with his international representation and offers him a platform to contribute to the development of football in his home country. This transfer could inspire other African players to consider playing in their home countries, potentially elevating the standard of football across the continent.
What's Next?
Ziyech's immediate focus will be on integrating into Wydad Casablanca's squad and contributing to their success in the Moroccan top flight and the CAF Confederation Cup. His presence is expected to strengthen the team's attacking options and provide leadership on and off the field. As Morocco has already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, Ziyech's performances at the club level could influence his potential return to the national team setup. Wydad Casablanca will aim to leverage Ziyech's experience to improve their standing in both domestic and international competitions.
