Morocco playmaker Hakim Ziyech seals move to Wydad Casablanca
Former Chelsea star Hakim Ziyech will play domestic football in Morocco after signing for giants Wydad Casablanca on a free transfer.
The 32-year-old, who is a Morocco full international, sealed the move to the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup campaigners on Thursday night,
The move ends Ziyech's several months without a club after his contract with Qatari side Al-Duhail expired in the summer.
The Casablanca giants confirmed the winger’s arrival and said he will be presented to supporters, with plans for an unveiling around next week’s derby against Raja at the Mohammed V Stadium.
Ziyech has signed a deal running to June 2027, with an option for further seasons.
The move brings one of Morocco’s most decorated current internationals to the Botola Pro at a pivotal moment for the national game, with the country hosting the 2025 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations and deepening preparations for the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ziyech is understood to view the switch as a platform to regain rhythm and fitness and to push his case for a place in the Atlas Lions squad over the coming international cycle.
A left-footed playmaker renowned for his passing range and set-piece delivery, Ziyech rose to prominence in the Netherlands with Heerenveen and FC Twente before starring at Ajax, where he won the Eredivisie and reached the UEFA Champions League semi-final in 2019.
His subsequent spell at Chelsea delivered a UEFA Champions League winner’s medal, and he later featured for Galatasaray before a short stint in Qatar.
He has 64 caps for Morocco and was part of the side that made World Cup history in 2022 by reaching the semi-finals.
For Wydad, one of Morocco’s most successful club, the signing is both a sporting statement and a commercial coup.
The Red and Whites are rebuilding for another continental tilt and will hope Ziyech’s experience in Europe can raise their attacking output in domestic and CAF competitions.
Club officials have highlighted the symbolic value of a marquee international coming home, while coaches expect him to add creativity between the lines and leadership in a young dressing room.
Ziyech has not played competitive club football since leaving Al-Duhail, and Wydad will manage his integration carefully, with an emphasis on conditioning before a full debut.
If the timetable aligns, an appearance in the Casablanca derby would provide a high-profile stage for his return.
Beyond the immediate fanfare, the transfer offers Ziyech a clear route back to top-level relevance and gives Wydad a proven match-winner as they chase trophies at home and abroad.