Hakim Ziyech: “Brazil is the number 1 country in football”

Arrived Tuesday evening in Rio de Janeiro to finalize his transfer to Botafogo, Hakim Ziyech shared his first impressions with the official channel of the Brazilian club. Welcomed by several supporters at Galeão International Airport, the 33-year-old Moroccan did not hide his enthusiasm about starting this new chapter in his career.

“Everything went well. The flight was a bit long, but it was fine. I am very excited. This is my first time here, but this destination has always been on my list. Now, it has become a reality,” the former Wydad Casablanca player told Botafogo TV.

Ziyech also explained that he has long been attracted to the special place that football occupies in Brazilian culture. “I don’t know much about the city yet. I am very excited. Brazil is the number 1 country in football. It’s a way of life that resonates with me and that I want to discover,” continued the Moroccan international.

After leaving Wydad Casablanca, where he scored nine goals and provided two assists in 16 matches, Ziyech must now undergo his medical examination. If the tests are successful, he will sign a contract with Botafogo valid until December 2028. Currently, the carioca club has not yet officially announced the signing of their new reinforcement.