Hakim Ziyech returns to training as Wydad begin new chapter under Paulo Sérgio

Hakim Ziyech joined Wydad Athletic Club’s first pre-season training session on Tuesday, easing doubts over his future as the Moroccan giants began preparations for the 2026-27 campaign under new coach Paulo Sérgio.

The Morocco international trained with his team-mates as Wydad officially launched their pre-season programme, marking the start of a new era following Sérgio’s appointment.

Ziyech, who remains under contract until the end of next season, took part in the opening session as the Casablanca club seeks to recover from a disappointing domestic campaign and challenge once again for major honours.

Ziyech appearance calms transfer rumours

The midfielder’s return to training comes after weeks of speculation surrounding his future at the club.

Ziyech joined Wydad ahead of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in one of the biggest moves in Moroccan football, but uncertainty emerged following the departure of former club president Hicham Ait Menna, who played a key role in bringing the former Chelsea star back to his homeland.

Reports had suggested that the 33-year-old could reconsider his future after changes in the club’s leadership.

However, his presence at Tuesday’s session appears to have put those rumours to rest, with the playmaker joining his team-mates from the opening day of preparations under the new coaching staff.

Paulo Sérgio begins work

Tuesday’s training session also marked Paulo Sérgio’s first day on the pitch since taking charge of Wydad.

The Portuguese coach has inherited a squad that has already been strengthened by several summer arrivals as the club looks to rebuild after falling short of expectations last season.

With fresh faces arriving, a new manager in place and one of Morocco’s biggest football stars committed to the project, Wydad’s preparations are now fully under way.

New season, renewed ambition

Wydad will hope that the combination of Sérgio’s leadership and Ziyech’s experience can help restore the club to the summit of Moroccan football.

After a difficult campaign, the Red Club enters the new season determined to re-establish itself as a force both domestically and on the continental stage.