Hakim Ziyech faces a crucial challenge as he seeks to earn a place in Morocco’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on home soil.
The Moroccan winger, newly signed by Wydad Casablanca, has just two matches to convince coach Walid Regragui that he deserves a spot in the final team for December’s continental tournament.
Wydad Casablanca confirmed Ziyech’s contract until 2027, with an option to extend, on Friday.
However, he will not feature in the Moroccan Botola Pro League before January because the registration period has closed.
His only opportunity for competitive action lies in the CAF Confederation Cup, where Wydad will compete in the group stage following their qualification against Asante Kotoko.
Wydad president Hicham Aït Menna explained Ziyech’s situation in detail. “Ziyech will start training with Wydad next Thursday. He needs time to regain his rhythm.
If CAF validates his registration for the Confederation Cup, he could play as early as November. Otherwise, with the long break for the Arab Cup and the AFCON, his Botola debut should come in January,” he said.
This limited window means Ziyech may play only two matches before Regragui finalizes his AFCON squad.
Those appearances could prove decisive in shaping his international future.
Out of competitive football for several months, the 32-year-old must rediscover sharpness and demonstrate that his flair, creativity, and influence remain intact.
Ziyech’s story is one of both brilliance and resilience. Once among Morocco’s brightest talents, his return to domestic football marks a bid to reignite his career and reclaim his place among the national elite.
Each touch, pass, and strike in these next matches could determine whether he earns a ticket to the tournament.
Should he miss out, Ziyech will shift his focus to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Yet, playing the AFCON on home soil would mean far more—a symbolic opportunity to reconnect with Moroccan fans and end his career’s twilight years with pride.
For now, the clock is ticking, and every moment on the pitch could define his legacy.
