Hakim Ziyech Criticizes Wydad AC Management Over Absence
In a recent development that has stirred considerable controversy, Hakim Ziyech has publicly expressed his discontent with Wydad AC's management regarding his exclusion from the team’s latest friendly match and the training camp held in Agadir as they gear up for the upcoming season. The Moroccan international took to Instagram, responding to a post from a fan page dedicated to Wydad, where he explicitly accused the club’s president of barring him from participating in the friendly and accompanying the team to Agadir. Ziyech’s candid remark, “Go and ask your president why he refused to let me play in the game and travel to Agadir,” was laced with skepticism as he added that the president would “probably lie about it as usual.” This statement quickly gained traction among Wydad supporters, leading to a surge of speculation regarding the future of the 33-year-old player at the Casablanca club.
Wydad AC's Management Considering Ziyech's Departure
Reports from Moroccan outlet Al Omk Sport suggest that Wydad AC is actively seeking to part ways with Ziyech. The management has allegedly attempted to persuade the player to mutually terminate his contract, which is set to run until the summer of 2027. This situation poses a challenge for the club, as they would need to negotiate an early exit from the contract. One significant hurdle appears to be financial; Ziyech’s monthly salary, estimated at around MAD 1 million, is viewed as excessive given the club's current financial constraints. The management perceives his contract as a considerable strain on the budget as they prepare for the new season. Despite this, a substantial portion of Wydad’s fanbase has rallied behind Ziyech, advocating for his continued presence in Casablanca.
Supporters argue that Ziyech brings value that transcends his on-field contributions. His established international reputation, extensive European experience, and global fan appeal are seen as potential assets that could enhance the club's commercial and marketing endeavors. By retaining Ziyech, fans believe Wydad could partially mitigate the financial implications of his contract while also benefitting from his expertise as they strive for both domestic and international accolades.
Having joined Wydad at the beginning of 2026 as a free agent during the reign of former club president Hicham Ait Menna, Ziyech's transfer was heralded as one of the most significant moves in Moroccan football in recent times. His illustrious career, which began in the Netherlands with FC Twente and Ajax before moving to Chelsea in 2020, further solidified his stature within the sport. Following stints with Galatasaray in Turkey and Al-Duhail in Qatar, Ziyech’s return to Moroccan football was met with enthusiasm, as fans anticipated his vast experience would bolster Wydad’s quest for major trophies. However, his recent comments have unveiled a potential rift that could complicate the relationship between the player and the club. With Ziyech bound by his contract until 2027, Wydad faces a pivotal decision regarding whether to retain one of Moroccan football’s most prominent figures or negotiate an amicable separation.
As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.
