Hakim Ziyech’s Wydad chapter closes as forward looks to next move

Wydad have officially terminated Hakim Ziyech’s contract by mutual consent, bringing the Morocco international’s short spell with the club to an end.

The agreement was announced by Wydad on Sunday, following a period in which Ziyech’s relationship with the club became increasingly controversial. The final stages of his time at the Moroccan side were marked by reported disagreements with the club’s administration, led by president Ibrahim Al-Asri.

In a statement published on their official Facebook page, Wydad confirmed that both parties had agreed to end the contract amicably. The club thanked Ziyech for his contribution and paid tribute to his time wearing the team’s red shirt.

“Sometimes, some stories are shorter than we hoped, but they leave an unforgettable mark,” Wydad said.

The message acknowledged that Ziyech’s stay had not continued in the way supporters had expected, while stressing the significance of his arrival at the club.

“Wearing the Wydad shirt will always remain a special moment,” the club added, saying his presence would remain part of an unforgettable chapter in its history.

“You were one of us, and you will always remain part of the Wydad Athletic Club family.”

Wydad ended their statement by wishing the 32-year-old success in the next stage of his career.

“From Wydad of the Nation, we say thank you for every moment you carried the club’s shirt, and we wish you every success in your coming career, on and off the pitch.”

Ziyech’s departure leaves his immediate future unresolved, with several clubs outside Morocco reportedly interested in signing him during the current transfer window.

Brazilian side Botafogo and Libyan club Al-Ittihad are among those linked with the former Ajax, Chelsea and Galatasaray player, according to a number of reports.

His exit also prompted a farewell from Hicham Ait Menna, the former Wydad president who was responsible for bringing Ziyech to the club during his time in office. Ait Menna posted a photograph of himself with the player on Instagram.

“A star when you arrived, and a star when you leave. Thank you for your loyalty, professionalism and commitment to Wydad until the end. You were, and still are,” Ait Menna wrote alongside the image.

The end of Ziyech’s association with Wydad follows a brief period that had generated considerable interest among the club’s supporters. However, the difficulties surrounding the closing stages of the relationship ultimately led to the two sides agreeing to separate.

Ziyech is now expected to consider his options as clubs continue to assess whether they can secure his services during the transfer window. For Wydad, the conclusion of the agreement formally closes a story the club had hoped would last longer, while leaving the player free to determine the next step in his career.