Hakim Ziyech had his ticket and video for Brazil… then he backed out

The transfer appeared to be finalized. Hakim Ziyech and Botafogo had reached an agreement, while his arrival in Rio de Janeiro had already been arranged. The 33-year-old player had even filmed a video wearing the Brazilian club’s jersey, reports Globo Esporte.

The former Chelsea player nevertheless changed his position after speaking with his compatriot Zakaria Labyad, who plays for Corinthians. The conversation reportedly raised concerns about the quality of Brazilian pitches and the risk of injury. Ziyech then asked for time before confirming his departure.

On Bladi.net : Hakim Ziyech comes to train at Wydad with a bailiff; no one is there to meet him

Globo specifies that the exchange between the two Moroccans was positive and does not claim that Labyad advised him against signing. Other Botafogo players, including Alex Telles and Danilo, then contacted Ziyech to try to reassure him.

Botafogo revives negotiations

The player’s hesitation did not bring the matter to an end. A few hours later, UOL reported that Botafogo had managed to overcome his reservations and once again considered the discussions advanced. The club is offering him a two-season contract and now hopes he will arrive in Rio at the beginning of the week.

On Bladi.net : Hakim Ziyech refuses to lower his salary, conflict erupts at Wydad

This development comes as relations between Hakim Ziyech and Wydad’s management have seriously deteriorated. Left out of the training camp organized in Agadir, the Moroccan international had recently shown up for an individual session accompanied by a bailiff, without finding any member of the staff to supervise him.