Hakim Ziyech attends Casablanca derby with his mother amid Wydad unveiling

Hakim Ziyech made a surprise appearance in the stands of the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca on Wednesday night, attending the highly anticipated derby between Wydad Casablanca and Raja Casablanca alongside his mother.

The Moroccan international, who recently completed his move to Wydad, was seen watching the fierce encounter from the VIP section of the packed stadium.

Cameras from Le Siteinfo captured the former Chelsea and Galatasaray playmaker seated next to his mother, warmly acknowledging fans who cheered upon noticing his presence.

Ziyech’s attendance added an extra layer of excitement to an already electric atmosphere, as supporters from both sides filled the stadium to capacity.

The occasion marked one of Morocco’s most passionate fixtures, a contest that often transcends sport and embodies the cultural and emotional heart of Casablanca.

Although Ziyech did not take part in the match, his presence was symbolic — a clear indication of his immediate integration into the Wydad family and his commitment to connecting with the club’s supporters.

The 31-year-old star has yet to make his official debut but is expected to be presented formally to the fans before Wydad’s upcoming league fixture against Ittihad de Tanger.

Ziyech’s move to Wydad Casablanca marks a homecoming for the Moroccan icon, whose illustrious career has taken him across some of Europe’s biggest stages.

Having shone at Ajax Amsterdam, where he built his reputation as one of the continent’s most creative midfielders, he later joined Premier League giants Chelsea, contributing to their UEFA Champions League triumph in 2021, before a spell with Turkish champions Galatasaray.

His arrival has been met with widespread enthusiasm among Wydad supporters, who view his signing as a major statement of intent from the club ahead of a crucial phase in the Moroccan Botola Pro and continental competitions.

As fans erupted into chants of his name during the derby, Ziyech could be seen smiling and acknowledging the crowd — a moment that symbolized both his pride and the anticipation surrounding his return to Moroccan football.

The night may have belonged to the two Casablanca rivals on the pitch, but in the stands, all eyes were on Hakim Ziyech — the local hero coming home.