Moroccan international Hakim Ziyech has expressed his deep connection to Morocco, stating that he will always be proud to be Moroccan. In an interview with Botafogo TV, Ziyech reflected on what it means to carry the Moroccan identity from childhood and represent the national team on the international stage. He emphasized that being Moroccan is something he was born with and has grown up with.
Ziyech, 33, added that representing Morocco has been particularly meaningful because it was a choice he made himself, allowing him to share major moments with the national team. He made his senior debut for Morocco in 2015 and has since become one of the most recognizable figures in the Atlas Lions' recent history. Ziyech played a crucial role in Morocco's run to the 2022 FIFA World Cup semifinals in Qatar.
During Morocco's historic 2022 World Cup campaign, the team defeated Belgium, Spain, and Portugal before losing to France in the semifinals. Morocco became the first African and Arab team to reach the final four of a World Cup. Ziyech has represented Morocco at the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, scoring 25 goals in 64 appearances for the national team.
Ziyech's comments come after he began a new chapter in Brazil with Botafogo, signing a contract with the Rio de Janeiro club through the end of 2028. This move marks Ziyech's return to club football outside Morocco after spells with Ajax, Chelsea, Galatasaray, and Al-Duhail. He made his Botafogo debut earlier this month, featuring in the second half of the club's Brazilian league defeat to Mirassol.
Botafogo coach Tite accelerated Ziyech's introduction after seeing the Moroccan's technical quality. Ziyech was born in the Netherlands to Moroccan parents and chose to represent Morocco at the international level. His decision to represent Morocco has been a source of pride for him throughout his career.
Ziyech's connection to Morocco is rooted in his childhood, and he has always felt a strong sense of pride in representing his country. He has been an important player for Morocco, contributing significantly to the team's success in recent years. Ziyech's commitment to Morocco is a testament to his dedication to his heritage.
As Ziyech continues his career with Botafogo, he will look to build on his success with Morocco and make a lasting impact in Brazil. With his technical quality and experience, Ziyech is expected to play a key role for Botafogo in the coming seasons. His pride in being Moroccan will likely continue to drive him to achieve great things in his career.
Key points
- Hakim Ziyech has expressed his pride in being Moroccan and representing his country throughout his career.
- Ziyech played a crucial role in Morocco's run to the 2022 FIFA World Cup semifinals in Qatar.
- Ziyech has signed a contract with Botafogo through the end of 2028 and has made his debut for the Brazilian club.
