Stéphane Aziz Ki is poised to become the only player from Burkina Faso competing in this year’s FIFA Club World Cup, following his recent move to Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca.
The 28-year-old attacking midfielder joined Wydad on a two-year contract that runs until June 2027. His arrival comes at a pivotal moment for the club, as they prepare to represent Africa on the global stage at the Club World Cup, set to begin this week in the United States.
Aziz Ki’s inclusion in the Wydad squad for the tournament highlights the club’s immediate faith in his abilities. Though newly signed, he has quickly impressed the coaching staff and earned his place in the final squad list submitted to FIFA for the competition. Club officials have expressed confidence in his potential to make an impact, particularly as Wydad navigates a challenging group stage.
His debut in Wydad colours came during a recent friendly match in the United States, in which the Burkinabe international found the back of the net—an encouraging start for a player aiming to settle quickly into his new surroundings.
Wydad Athletic Club face a stern test in their opening match of the tournament, as they go head-to-head with Premier League champions Manchester City. The encounter is expected to be one of the highlights of the group stage, pitting the North African side against the reigning European title-holders in front of an international audience.
For Aziz Ki, the upcoming fixture is more than just a football match—it represents a significant personal milestone. As the sole Burkinabe representative in the tournament, he carries not only the hopes of Wydad supporters but also the pride of his nation.
Born in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, but eligible for Burkina Faso through descent, Aziz Ki has steadily built a reputation as a creative force in midfield. Known for his technical ability, vision, and goal-scoring instincts, he has previously featured prominently for both ASEC Mimosas and Young Africans SC, before taking the leap to Wydad—a club with continental pedigree and global ambitions.
The midfielder’s rise to this level has been marked by consistency and an ability to perform in high-stakes matches, qualities that will be vital as Wydad take on elite opponents such as Manchester City, Juventus, and Al Ain in Group G of the tournament.
Despite the formidable opposition, Aziz Ki appears determined to make the most of this opportunity. The Club World Cup offers him a rare platform to showcase his talent against some of the most decorated names in world football, and to elevate both his profile and that of Burkinabe football on a global scale.
With the spotlight set to shine on the United States this June, all eyes will be on Wydad Casablanca—and, in particular, on their newest midfield addition. For Stéphane Aziz Ki, the challenge is great, but so is the opportunity.
