Algeria Football– Hakim Ziyech, long considered one of the best Moroccan talents, seems at a decisive turning point in his career. After contrasting years in Europe, the 31-year-old could well end his adventure on the Old Continent to explore new horizons.
Since his arrival at Galatasaray in 2024, expectations around Ziyech have been high. Building on his past exploits, notably at Ajax and the Moroccan selection, the attacking midfielder was supposed to become a centerpiece of the Istanbul club. On paper, his time in Türkiye brought collective success: a Super Lig and a Turkish Super Cup. However, individually, Ziyech never really found his place. With only 34 appearances, 8 goals and 5 assists, his performance is well below expectations.
A calf injury in September 2024 marked a breaking point. Away from the field for several weeks, Ziyech failed to regain his level on his return. Relegated to the bench, then excluded from call-ups, it is now obvious that his adventure with Galatasaray is coming to an end. A bitter fate for a player who had everything to win at the top.
A mixed European career
Ziyech’s journey in Europe has been marked by ups and downs. His flamboyant debut at Ajax, where he shone in the Champions League, opened the doors to Chelsea for him. But his transfer to London in 2020 ended in failure, between injuries and lack of consistency. An aborted transfer to PSG in 2023 was another blow. Despite everything, his overall statistics remain impressive: 428 matches, 118 goals and 140 assists.
Heading to Saudi Arabia?
According to recent reports, Ziyech has agreed to join Al-Fateh in Saudi Arabia. The team, currently bottom of their league, are desperate to avoid relegation. If the agreement is confirmed, Ziyech would find his compatriots Marouane Saâdane and Mourad Batna. For Al-Fateh, this transfer would represent a significant media and sporting blow.
However, Ziyech is not without options in Europe. Several clubs, including Stade Rennais, Torino and West Ham, have shown interest. But the financial attraction and the tranquility of life in the Gulf countries could weigh heavily in the balance.
For Hakim Ziyech, this decision would mark a new stage, and perhaps a new lease of life, in a rich but pitfalls-filled career.
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