Morocco international Hakim Ziyech is set to continue his career in South America after Brazilian giants Botafogo confirmed the signing of the experienced winger on a free transfer.
The 33-year-old joins Botafogo after leaving Moroccan side Wydad Casablanca earlier this summer and is expected to sign a two-year contract once he completes his medical examinations in Rio de Janeiro.
Ziyech expressed his excitement after arriving in Brazil, revealing that it had always been his dream to experience football in the country.
“Everything went well; the flight was a bit long, but I’m really excited. Rio has always been on my list to visit and now it’s become a reality. Brazil is the number one country when it comes to football. It’s a way of life and I want to experience that,” he told Botafogo’s official media channel.
The move marks another chapter in the decorated career of the Dutch-born Moroccan, who has featured for some of Europe’s biggest clubs, including Ajax, Chelsea and Galatasaray.
Ziyech rose to global prominence during his time at Ajax, helping the Dutch giants reach the UEFA Champions League semi-finals in 2019 before earning a move to Chelsea, where he won the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.
Following spells in England and Turkey, the creative winger moved to Al Duhail in Qatar before returning to Morocco with Wydad Casablanca. He impressed during his brief stay, scoring nine goals and providing two assists in 16 appearances.
On the international stage, Ziyech has been one of Morocco’s standout performers, playing a pivotal role in the Atlas Lions’ historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar—the best-ever finish by an African nation at the tournament.
Botafogo believe Ziyech’s wealth of experience, creativity and winning mentality will strengthen their squad as they continue to compete for major honours in Brazilian and continental football.
