Ziyech targets Botafogo revival before Morocco return

Hakim Ziyech says his move to Botafogo is not about money or winding down his career, but about rediscovering his enjoyment of football and proving he deserves a recall to Morocco.

The 33-year-old, who arrived in Brazil a few days ago, told Africa Foot that he chose the Brazilian league after spells in Europe, the Middle East and North Africa because he wanted a different challenge and a new environment.

“For me, joining the Brazilian league was not simply about money,” said Ziyech. “At this stage of my career, I was looking for a new challenge and, above all, a place where I could rediscover the joy of playing football.”

He acknowledged that some other offers may have been financially more attractive, but said money was not going to determine his next move.

“Of course, there were other options, some perhaps more appealing financially, but I did not want money to be the only factor,” he added. “I want to play football, experience something new and test myself in a strong and different league.”

Ziyech said Brazil appealed to him because of the country’s distinctive football culture and the passion of its supporters.

“Football is practised differently in Brazil. The fans have an exceptional passion for the sport, and that atmosphere suits me,” he said.

He also explained his decision to return to Morocco and join Wydad was motivated by personal and sporting reasons rather than financial considerations.

“I did not return to my country for money. I wanted to be close to my family and play in front of Moroccan fans,” Ziyech said.

However, his time at Wydad ended after disagreements over working conditions and financial matters.

“Football is not only about emotions,” he said. “Some things changed inside the club and disagreements developed over several details, especially working conditions and financial issues. At one point, I felt things were not going as expected, so we mutually decided to part ways.”

Ziyech insisted that leaving Wydad did not mean he had rejected the idea of playing in Morocco.

“It was a valuable experience and I have great respect for Wydad and its supporters,” he said. “But at this stage of my career, I needed a new challenge in an environment where I could focus completely on football.”

He believes Botafogo, who have major ambitions and passionate fans, can provide that opportunity. He has signed a contract running until the end of 2028 and says he remains determined to succeed.

“I did not come to Brazil to finish my career,” he said. “I still have ambition and the desire to win. I want to play, score goals, create them and help the team achieve its objectives.”

Ziyech has not ruled out returning to Morocco’s national team, but says his performances must earn him that opportunity.

“Returning does not depend only on the club or the coach. I must first prove my worth on the pitch,” he said. “If I produce the performances I know I am capable of, and the coach believes I deserve to return, I will be very happy to wear the Morocco shirt again.”

Ziyech said the team remained especially important to him after their historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup.

“The national team means a lot to me. I experienced unforgettable moments, especially at the 2022 World Cup, so I will never rule out a return,” he said. “But I do not want to force my place. I want to earn it through my performances with Botafogo.”

His first opportunity to impress supporters will come when Botafogo play their rearranged Brazilian league fixture against Gremio from round 21.