Hakim Ziyech reveals reasons for leaving Wydad Casablanca and sets condition for national team return

Hakim Ziyech, the Moroccan international and Botafogo player, has revealed details about his departure from Wydad Casablanca, confirming that his decision to return to Morocco and play for the red club was based on personal conviction, before some circumstances within the team changed and disagreements arose over several issues.

Hakim Ziyech explained in an interview with the newspaper "Africa Foot" that his transfer to Wydad Casablanca was not driven by financial motives, saying: "Returning to Morocco and playing with Wydad was a decision I made with great conviction. I did not come back to my country for money, but I wanted to be close to my family and play in front of Moroccan fans."

He added: "But football is not based solely on emotions; after a certain period, some things changed within the club, and differences emerged between us regarding several details, especially concerning working conditions and financial aspects."

The Moroccan player explained that the separation from Wydad Casablanca came by mutual consent, stating: "At a certain stage, I felt that things were no longer going the way I had imagined, so we made the decision to part ways amicably. I did not leave Morocco because I did not want to play there; on the contrary, this experience was important for me, and I have a lot of respect for Wydad and its fans."

Hakim Ziyech has confirmed that his desire for a new challenge was among the reasons for his departure, indicating that he is looking for an environment that allows him to focus entirely on football. He said: "But at this stage of my career, I felt that I needed a new challenge, in an environment where I can focus solely on football."

Hakim Ziyech has opened the door for a potential return to the Morocco national team, expressing his willingness to rejoin the squad.

In another part of the conversation, Hakim Ziyech discussed the possibility of returning to the Morocco national team, confirming that he does not rule out wearing the jersey of the 'Atlas Lions' again. However, he emphasized that deserving a return depends on delivering strong performances with Botafogo.

Hakim Ziyech said: "I believe Botafogo can give me the opportunity to show that I am still capable of playing at the highest level, but returning to the national team does not depend only on the club or the coach; I must first prove my abilities on the pitch."

He added: "If I deliver the performances that I know I am capable of, and if the coach of the Moroccan national team sees that I deserve to return, I will of course be happy to wear the Morocco shirt again."

The former Morocco international star emphasized that his relationship with the 'Atlas Lions' jersey remains strong, recalling his memories with the national team, especially during the FIFA World Cup 2022. He stated: "The national team means a lot to me. I lived unforgettable moments with it, especially during the FIFA World Cup 2022, so I will never close the door on a return. But I do not want to demand a place. I want to earn it through my performance with Botafogo."