Moroccan international Hakim Ziyech was met with an extraordinary reception by his new team, Botafogo, in Brazil, amidst an atmosphere filled with excitement and overwhelming support from fans. This heartwarming scene reflected the significant stature Ziyech holds among the supporters, just before the match held at the Nilton Santos Stadium in Rio de Janeiro against Bragantino.
Wearing the Botafogo jersey adorned with the number 22, Ziyech made a grand entrance onto the pitch, surrounded by smoke and fireworks, while the cheers of the fans echoed throughout the stadium. Children waved flags representing both Morocco and Brazil in a ceremonial corridor that displayed the BRASILEIRÃO Betano logo. Ziyech engaged warmly with the children, shaking hands and taking pictures with them before heading over to acknowledge the packed stands, where a large banner featuring his name was proudly displayed. This moment encapsulated the warm welcome he received upon his arrival at Galeão Airport late Tuesday night.
The reception captured public attention, transforming Ziyech's arrival into a festive occasion, underscoring the immense popularity he enjoys—one of the most prominent figures in Moroccan football in recent years. This unveiling followed Botafogo's official announcement last Thursday of Ziyech's signing, who joined from Wydad Casablanca under a contract that extends until December 2028.
Ziyech's transfer to Botafogo came shortly after he mutually agreed to terminate his contract with Wydad Casablanca, a club he joined in October 2025 as a free agent. During his time with Wydad, he played 16 matches last season, scoring 9 goals and providing 2 assists. This new venture marks Ziyech's first professional experience in South American football, following a career predominantly spent in Europe, where he made a significant impact at Ajax Amsterdam before moving to Chelsea, with whom he won the UEFA Champions League in 2021.
At 33 years old, Ziyech has accumulated 64 international caps with the Moroccan national team, netting 25 goals. He was also a key player in the historic achievement of leading the Atlas Lions to the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. With his transfer to Botafogo, Ziyech embarks on a new chapter in his football journey, facing fresh challenges in the Brazilian league beyond the European continent.
As reported by alyaoum24.com.
