Wydad AC part ways with Morocco star Hakim Ziyech after just one season

Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club have announced the departure of experienced Morocco winger Hakim Ziyech after just one season at the club.

The 33-year-old joined Wydad in the summer of 2025 in a move that generated significant excitement among the club’s supporters, given his reputation and experience at the highest level of European football.

However, his time in Casablanca has now come to an end, with the two parties agreeing to terminate their partnership after one season.

“Perhaps this period did not last as long as we had hoped, but seeing you in a Wydad shirt will forever remain a special moment for the club and its supporters. Your presence here will occupy a unique place in our history,” the club said.

Ziyech leaves Wydad having made 16 appearances in all competitions last season, scoring nine goals.

Although injuries and other fitness issues limited his involvement at various stages of the campaign, the Moroccan still managed to make an important contribution whenever he was available.

His goalscoring record was particularly impressive, with nine goals from just 16 appearances underlining the quality he continued to possess despite being in the latter stages of his career.

Ziyech is widely regarded as one of Morocco’s most accomplished footballers of his generation. He built his reputation during a highly successful spell with Ajax Amsterdam, where his creativity, left-footed ability and goalscoring contributions attracted the attention of some of Europe’s biggest clubs.

His performances earned him a move to Chelsea, where he competed in the Premier League and UEFA Champions League before subsequently continuing his career in Turkey with Galatasaray.

The winger later returned to his homeland with Wydad, giving Moroccan supporters the opportunity to watch one of the country’s biggest football stars represent a leading domestic club.

Despite the relatively short duration of his stay, Ziyech leaves behind a memorable chapter at Wydad, with the club recognising his contribution and the significance of having such a high-profile player wear their shirt.

The end of the partnership now leaves the veteran forward facing another important decision over the next stage of his career.

At 33, Ziyech still possesses considerable experience and technical quality, and his impressive goals-per-game record at Wydad could attract interest from clubs looking for an experienced attacking player.

For now, however, the Moroccan will have to assess his options and decide where his next chapter will take him after bringing his brief but memorable spell with Wydad Casablanca to an end.