Hakim Ziyech has acknowledged he is still working towards full fitness but remains confident in his ability to make an impact for Al-Duhail in the Qatar Stars League.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of his side’s clash against Al-Shahaniya, the Moroccan international addressed his physical condition, his adaptation to life in Qatar, and his hopes for the remainder of the season.
Settling in at Al-Duhail
Ziyech, who joined the Doha-based club in January, expressed satisfaction with his transition, crediting the club’s management, teammates, and supporters for making his adaptation smoother.
“The support from everyone, both on and off the pitch, gave me a sense of comfort from the beginning. This trust and harmony have developed over time, and I am grateful to be in an environment that helps me shine and give the best of myself,” Ziyech said.
The 30-year-old winger arrived in Qatar after a turbulent spell at Chelsea, followed by a loan move to Galatasaray, where he struggled with injuries.
While his technical ability remains undisputed, concerns over his fitness have persisted since his arrival at Al-Duhail.
Not yet at full fitness
Despite his eagerness to contribute, Ziyech admitted he is still short of peak condition.
Though he declared himself “physically and mentally ready” to take the field in Friday’s league fixture, he acknowledged the process of regaining sharpness takes time.
📹 فيديو المؤتمر الصحفي لمواجهة فريق الشحانية ضمن مباريات الاسبوع 17 من الدوري.
• https://t.co/LvNbLThDEt#الدحيل | #دوري_نجوم_أريدُ pic.twitter.com/Lvou0Gn27B
— نادي الدحيل ALDUHAIL (@DuhailSC) February 27, 2025
“It is natural for any player to need regular playing time to get back to their level. It is an essential step in the process, especially after a long period without playing competitive matches,” he explained.
Ziyech’s last full 90-minute appearance dates back to early September, and he has started from the bench in his last three outings for Al-Duhail.
His coach, Christophe Galtier, echoed similar sentiments, stating that the Moroccan playmaker needs to build up match rhythm gradually.
“I have no doubts about my abilities, and once I regain full fitness, I know that I will be a real attacking threat and have a clear impact on the team’s performance,” Ziyech assured reporters.
National team future uncertain
While Ziyech’s progress is being closely monitored by Morocco’s head coach, Walid Regragui, his return to international duty remains uncertain.
The winger was spotted in the stands last Saturday, underlining the national team’s continued interest in his recovery.
However, with 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers approaching in March, it is still unclear whether he will be included in the squad.
Ziyech has been a key figure for the Atlas Lions, earning 64 caps and scoring 25 goals, but his fitness struggles have limited his involvement in recent months.
As he continues his return to form, both Al-Duhail and Moroccan fans will be hoping to see him back to his best in the near future.
