Hakim Ziyech to Botafogo: An Unexpected Move to Brazil for a Moroccan Artist

Hakim Ziyech is ready for a new adventure in Brazil. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Moroccan forward will arrive in Brazil on Tuesday to complete his move to Botafogo. He has already agreed personal terms and will sign a contract until December 2028. Botafogo will pay no transfer fee because Ziyech recently left Wydad Casablanca as a free agent. The deal is basically done, with only the medical and the official announcement left. Ziyech, who is 33 years old, brings vast European experience to a Botafogo side sitting 13th in the Brazilian Serie A with 30 points after 24 games. The club from Rio de Janeiro needs creative players to stabilise their season. Ziyech has played for big clubs such as Heerenveen, Twente, Ajax, Chelsea and Galatasaray. He was one of the most exciting attacking midfielders during his time at Ajax, and he also won the Champions League with Chelsea in 2026. This move is interesting for several reasons. Botafogo are owned by John Textor, who also controls Lyon. The club won the Copa Libertadores in 2026, making this season's struggles look even more disappointing. They hope that Ziyech's technical quality can make the difference. In Brazil, he will find a less physically structured but still highly competitive league. His dribbling, passing and deadly left foot could shine. The main risks are his age and injury history. Brazilian football has a heavy schedule, and many matches involve intense physical battles. Botafogo need to manage Ziyech carefully in his first months. If they do, the Moroccan can still become a key figure in their attack. This move may also have commercial benefits, as Ziyech remains a popular player in the Arab world and Africa. For Ziyech, this is an opportunity to rediscover joy and prove that he can still perform at a high level. A contract until the end of 2028 shows that Botafogo are willing to give him a long-term role. It may be an unexpected step, but it could be exactly what both sides need at this stage of their journeys.