Hakim Ziyech arrives in Brazil ahead of new adventure with Botafogo

Moroccan international Hakim Ziyech has arrived in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, ahead of his transfer to Botafogo, marking a new experience that places the 33-year-old player in front of a different challenge in his football career.

Hakim Ziyech arrived at Galeão Airport on Tuesday evening, where he was greeted by enthusiastic Botafogo fans who came to welcome him, alongside Leonardo Queiroz, the club's technical director, in an atmosphere that reflected the supporters' excitement for the arrival of the Moroccan star.

Ziyech expressed his happiness with the start he had in Brazil, stating that he is excited to embark on this adventure, especially since it is the first time he visits the country, which has always been one of the destinations he wanted to visit.

The Moroccan player said upon his arrival in Rio de Janeiro: "I am very excited. This is my first time here, but Brazil has always been on my list of places I want to visit, and now it has become a reality."

Ziyech explained that his interest in the Brazilian experience is not only related to football, noting that the game in Brazil represents a "lifestyle", which increases his desire to get to know the local atmosphere and experience it up close.

Ziyech is set to undergo medical tests today, Wednesday, before finalizing his contract with Botafogo, which will run until June 2028. This move reflects the Brazilian club's commitment to securing his services in the upcoming period.

Ziyech embarks on this stage after a career that began in the Netherlands with Heerenveen and Twente, before making a strong impression with Ajax and becoming one of the key playmakers in Dutch football. He then moved to Chelsea to experience the Premier League.

After leaving the London club, Ziyech played for Galatasaray and Al-Duhail SC before returning to Morocco through Wydad Athletic Club, where he tried to regain his form last season, scoring 9 goals in 16 matches after needing a period to adapt before regaining his attacking presence.