Morocco star Hakim Ziyech jets off to Brazil to seal Botafogo move after Wydad AC exit

Morocco star Hakim Ziyech is set to begin another chapter of his nomadic career after agreeing to join Botafogo following his departure from Wydad Casablanca.

The former Chelsea winger will arrive in Brazil on Tuesday to complete his move to the Brazilian football powerhouse. The 33-year-old is expected to sign a contract that will keep him at the club until December 2028.

Ziyech’s move to Brazil comes after a turbulent spell at Wydad, where his relationship with the club’s new management deteriorated in recent weeks.

The former Ajax and Chelsea playmaker became embroiled in a public dispute with the Wydad hierarchy over his salary, leading to his exclusion from the club’s training camp and subsequent omission from matchday squads.

The situation eventually reached a breaking point, with Ziyech and Wydad agreeing to terminate his contract by mutual consent on Sunday, allowing the Moroccan to leave the Casablanca-based club as a free agent.

Despite the difficult circumstances surrounding his exit, Ziyech’s performances in Morocco demonstrated that he still possesses the quality to make a significant impact. He scored eight goals in 12 Botola Pro appearances last season, underlining his attacking influence despite the off-field turbulence.

His move to Botafogo, however, was not entirely straightforward.

The transfer reportedly came close to collapsing at the final stage after Ziyech hesitated over the move following concerns raised by Morocco teammate Zakaria Labyad about the condition of Brazilian pitches. The winger had already recorded his presentation video and booked his flight, but doubts emerged before Botafogo continued pushing to complete the deal.

The Brazilian club’s persistence has ultimately paid off, with Ziyech now expected to travel to Brazil and finalise his switch ahead of the September 11 registration deadline.

Botafogo will be hoping the Moroccan can bring the creativity, experience and attacking quality that made him one of Europe’s most dangerous playmakers during his peak years.

Ziyech rose to prominence at Ajax, where his left foot became a major weapon in the club’s memorable Champions League run. His performances earned him a move to Chelsea, where he went on to win the Champions League in 2021.

His career has since taken him through several destinations, including spells in England, Turkey, Qatar and Morocco. The move to Botafogo now adds Brazil to an increasingly international football journey.

Botafogo are currently sitting 13th in the Brasileirão and will be looking to Ziyech to provide an attacking spark as they attempt to climb the table.

The club, which won the Copa Libertadores in 2024, will view the Moroccan’s arrival as an opportunity to add experience and creativity to their squad.

For Ziyech, meanwhile, the move represents another chance to revive his career and demonstrate that his ability remains intact.

After his brief and controversial stay at Wydad, the Moroccan will be hoping for greater stability in Rio de Janeiro and a chance to once again let his football do the talking.

From Amsterdam to London, Doha and Casablanca, Ziyech’s career has taken him across several footballing destinations. His next stop is now Brazil, where Botafogo will be counting on the magic of his famous left foot.