Hakim Ziyech’s Botafogo move explained by agent Ersin Gultekin

Hakim Ziyech’s decision to join Botafogo has surprised parts of the football world, with the Morocco international choosing Brazil after making his name in Europe with Ajax Amsterdam, Chelsea and Galatasaray.

A return to Europe had also been discussed during the summer transfer window, but the 33-year-old opted for a new challenge in South America.

Ziyech’s agent, Ersin Gultekin, told Maghreb-Foot about the discussions that led to the move and explained why his client believes Botafogo can provide the right next step in his career.

‘I did not come to Brazil to finish my career’

Gultekin began by underlining Ziyech’s status and ability, describing him as a “world-class player”.

The agent said the Morocco international still has the qualities and experience associated with an elite footballer, before outlining how the possibility of moving to Brazil first emerged.

The idea of Botafogo came from a conversation between Gultekin and Ziyech. With a number of potential options still available, the agent decided to present the club’s project to his client.

The proposal quickly attracted Ziyech’s interest. The response convinced those involved that Brazil could offer a serious opportunity for the next stage of his career.

Agreement reached quickly

Once Ziyech’s interest had been established, negotiations with Botafogo progressed rapidly.

Gultekin said the parties were able to reach an agreement in a short period, completing a transfer that takes Ziyech away from the European football environment in which he has spent much of his career.

The move represents a fresh chapter for the former Chelsea player, who has also played for Ajax Amsterdam, Galatasaray and Wydad.

Ziyech is not approaching his time in Brazil as a brief stop before retirement. According to his agent, he is arriving with clear sporting ambitions and wants to compete for trophies with Botafogo.

The Morocco international will now experience a different league and football culture while seeking to establish an important role within his new team and contribute to its objectives.

Gultekin also insisted that Ziyech wants to leave a lasting mark in Brazil. The player’s ambition, he said, is not simply to see out the remaining years of his career but to take on new challenges and make his contribution count.

“I did not come to Brazil to finish my career,” Ziyech said.

After performing on major stages with Ajax Amsterdam, Chelsea and Galatasaray, the Moroccan is now preparing to write another chapter of his career in the colours of Botafogo.

Botafogo will soon play their postponed match from the 21st round of the Brazilian championship against Gremio.