In a major statement of intent, Wydad Casablanca has landed former Chelsea star Hakim Ziyech. The high-profile signing sees Ziyech link up with Thembinkosi Lorch, signalling the Moroccan side’s serious intent to sweep major trophies.
In the past few months, Wydad have taken a robust approach in the transfer window in a bid to reclaim their position as one of the best clubs on the African continent.
Wydad have signed big-name players such as Stephane Aziz Ki, Nordin Amrabat, and Lorch, amongst many others, in the previous transfer window.
The Red Castle participated in the FIFA Club World Cup a few months ago, something that has seemingly reignited the hunger from the club hierarchy to compete for all trophies on offer.
In the domestic league, Wydad are currently sitting second in the Botola Pro after collecting 10 points with three wins and one draw in four matches played so far.
The Moroccan giants are also in a quest to secure a spot in the group stages of the CAF Confederation Cup after taking an advantage with a 1-0 victory over Asante Kotoko in the first-leg of the Second Preliminary Round away from home last Sunday.
WYDAD SECURE THE SIGNATURE OF HAKIM ZIYECH
In a major transfer coup, Wydad have secured the signature of experienced attacker Hakim Ziyech as a free agent on a one-year deal. In a brief statement on Thursday night, Wydad said: “The world waits… the Wizard [Ziyech] is here.”
The 32-year-old enjoyed a successful career with some of the top clubs in Europe, such as Ajax Amsterdam, Chelsea, and Galatasaray.
Ziyech won the 2021 UEFA Champions League title with English Premier League side Chelsea after beating rivals Manchester City 1-0 in the final.
The left-footed winger has amassed over 400 appearances across various clubs in Europe, scoring 134 goals and providing 135 assists, according to Transfermarkt.
Meanwhile, Ziyech has been out of action in the Moroccan National Team after battling persistent injuries since 2023, and the move to Wydad could help him return to the side with the 2025 AFCON around the corner.
RELATED STORY: Comitis makes bold statement about Witbooi’s trial at Chelsea