Morocco star Hakim Ziyech excited to begin new Botafogo adventure in Brazil

Moroccan international Hakim Ziyech has expressed his excitement after arriving in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, ahead of completing his move to Brazilian giants Botafogo.

The 32-year-old recently left Wydad Athletic Club after both parties agreed to terminate his contract by mutual consent, paving the way for him to begin a new chapter in his professional career.

Speaking after his arrival in Rio de Janeiro, Ziyech said he was delighted to finally visit a city he had always hoped to experience.

“Everything went well. The trip was a bit long, but I am very excited. Rio has always been on my list of places I wanted to visit, and now it has become a reality,” Ziyech said, as quoted by Moroccan outlet Al-Botola.

The former Chelsea and Ajax star also spoke about his eagerness to experience football culture in Brazil, describing the South American nation as the ultimate football destination.

“I am very excited. Brazil is the number one country when it comes to football; it’s a way of life, and I want to live this experience,” he added.

Ziyech is expected to complete the remaining procedures related to his move to Botafogo in the coming hours after undergoing his medical examinations. The deal is expected to be officially announced once contractual details are finalised.

Botafogo currently sit 13th in the Brazilian league standings with 30 points after 24 matches.

The move will mark a new chapter in Ziyech’s career as he prepares to test himself in South American football for the first time.