Hakim Ziyech Reconsiders Botafogo Move at Last Minute
Rabat – Moroccan international Hakim Ziyech has reportedly asked for additional time to consider a move to Brazilian club Botafogo, despite the two sides having reached an agreement over the transfer.
According to Brazilian outlet Globo, Ziyech had already recorded a video for his presentation and booked a flight to Rio de Janeiro for Sunday, September 6, before reconsidering the move.
The 33-year-old reportedly became concerned about the quality of football pitches in Brazil after receiving a warning about playing conditions.
Ziyech’s decision came after a conversation with fellow Moroccan international Zakaria Labyad, who currently plays for Corinthians. Labyad reportedly spoke to the former Ajax and Chelsea winger about conditions in Brazilian football, prompting Ziyech to ask Botafogo for more time to make a final decision.
Despite the setback, Botafogo has not abandoned its pursuit of the Moroccan winger.
The Brazilian club remains confident that it can complete the signing and reportedly sees Ziyech as the major addition to its squad during the current transfer window. Botafogo is specifically looking to strengthen the left-wing position, a role the Moroccan would be expected to fill.
The club has also reportedly attempted to reassure Ziyech about the conditions in Brazil. Several players contacted the Moroccan to encourage him to complete the move, including former Ajax teammate Danilo Pereira and experienced defender Alex Telles.
Botafogo’s proposal reportedly includes a contract running until December 2028. However, the club’s salary offer is considered relatively low compared with the wages typically offered to starting attacking players in Brazil.
For now, negotiations remain open, with Botafogo continuing to work on convincing Ziyech to make the move to Brazil before the transfer window closes.
Ziyech’s Career
Ziyech established himself as one of Europe’s most talented attacking players during his time at Ajax. He played a key role in the Dutch club’s memorable run to the Champions League semifinals during the 2018-19 season.
His performances in Amsterdam convinced Chelsea to sign him for €40 million in 2020. Although he did not consistently reproduce his Ajax form in England, Ziyech was part of Chelsea’s Champions League-winning squad in the 2020-21 season.
At international level, Ziyech was one of Morocco’s standout players during the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The Atlas Lions reached the semifinals and eventually finished fourth, becoming the first African team to reach the final four of the competition.
Ziyech joined Wydad Casablanca in October 2025 on a free transfer after leaving Qatari club Al-Duhail.
During his time with Wydad, he has reportedly made 16 appearances, scoring nine goals and providing two assists.
With Botafogo still interested and negotiations reportedly ongoing, Ziyech’s next move remains uncertain as the Brazilian transfer window approaches its deadline.