Morocco’s World Cup Hero Ziyech Faces Career Crossroads

The latest setback came from Romania. While an agreement seemed to have been reached with CFR Cluj, the club’s owner, Neluțu Varga, put an end to the negotiations. He publicly cited two reasons: the player’s salary demands, deemed too high ("He wanted 2.5 million euros per year"), and above all doubts about his physical condition, stating that he "has a problem with his left knee".

This new failure illustrates the downward trajectory of the former Ajax Amsterdam star’s career since his aborted loan to PSG in the winter of 2023. His stint at Galatasaray ended in a conflict with the coach and a contract termination, and his six-month experience in Qatar, at Al-Duhail, was no more conclusive. Previously, the Spanish club Elche had also given up on recruiting him for similar reasons.

This situation has a direct consequence on his status in the national team. Coach Walid Regragui, who had not called him up in September, was clear: "For now, Hakim has not joined any club, so he is obviously not eligible for selection". The coach specified that he hoped his player "will find a solution", as the selection needs a "Hakim at 100% at the highest level".

At 32 years old and without having played an official match since May 10th, Hakim Ziyech is engaged in a race against time. A few months away from an Africa Cup of Nations organized in Morocco, one of the greatest talents of his generation risks missing the most anticipated event in the country.