Hakim Ziyech lands in Brazil to complete Botafogo move after leaving Wydad

Former Chelsea and Ajax winger Hakim Ziyech is set to begin a new chapter in Brazil after agreeing a move to Botafogo.

The Morocco international is expected to arrive in Brazil on Tuesday to complete the formalities of the transfer and sign his contract with the Rio de Janeiro club.

The deal has been agreed in principle, with only the final procedures and medical examination standing between Ziyech and an official move to Botafogo.

Ziyech became a free agent after reaching an agreement with Wydad Casablanca to terminate his contract by mutual consent on Sunday.

His departure brings a short spell with the Moroccan club to an end and opens the door for the 33-year-old to return to competitive football outside Africa.

Botafogo’s move for Ziyech represents a significant addition to their squad, with the Brazilian club looking to strengthen their attacking options. Reports indicate that the Moroccan is expected to sign a two-year contract, while other reports have suggested a deal running until December 2028.

The transfer had appeared to be in doubt last week after Ziyech reportedly raised concerns about the quality of pitches in Brazil. However, negotiations progressed again and Botafogo eventually secured an agreement with the experienced forward.

Ziyech arrives in Brazil with an impressive European pedigree. He established himself as one of the Netherlands’ most creative attacking players during his time at Ajax before earning a move to Chelsea in 2020.

At Ajax, he was particularly influential during the club’s memorable 2018-19 Champions League campaign, while his performances earned him a reputation for his vision, passing range, left-footed technique and ability from set pieces.

He later spent time at Galatasaray and Al-Duhail before returning to Morocco with Wydad.

His move to Wydad was regarded as a major coup for Moroccan football, but the relationship has now ended earlier than expected.

Ziyech also remains one of Morocco’s most recognisable footballers. He played a key role in the Atlas Lions’ historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, when Morocco became the first African nation to reach the last four of the tournament.

The move to Botafogo will therefore give Ziyech an opportunity to revive his career in a new environment and compete in Brazilian football for the first time.

Botafogo have previously attracted several high-profile international players, including Clarence Seedorf, Keisuke Honda and Salomon Kalou, and Ziyech’s arrival would add another prominent name to that list.

With his arrival expected on Tuesday, the final step is for Ziyech to complete his medical and put pen to paper before Botafogo can formally announce the signing.