Hakim Ziyech chooses Botafogo: a free transfer and the puzzle of regaining his level in Brazil

Hakim Ziyech is about to take on a completely new challenge outside Europe, Africa and Asia. His arrival date in Brazil has been confirmed to complete a move to Botafogo. Fabrizio Romano confirmed on X that the Moroccan midfielder will travel to Brazil to sign his contracts and officially join the club. The transfer is essentially done, pending only the signature and official announcement. Ziyech left Wydad Casablanca as a free agent. His spell at the Moroccan club was brief, and Botafogo moved quickly without paying a fee. According to French media, he hesitated before accepting the Brazilian offer, then decided to open the first chapter of his career in Brazil by signing a contract until December 2028. Botafogo are hoping this move will help them climb up the table. They are 13th in the Brasileirão with 30 points from 24 matches. The team needs creativity in the final third, and Ziyech’s vast European experience is seen as a major asset. His strengths include through-balls, diagonal passes, long-range shooting, and high-quality set pieces. Ziyech has played for Twente, Ajax, Chelsea and Galatasaray. At Ajax he was the conductor of an attacking team, creating chances with his sharp passing. At Chelsea he had memorable moments in the Champions League, though consistency was a recurring issue. In Turkey, he still showed glimpses of class, but fitness and intensity were major concerns. Now he takes on a Brazilian adventure at 33, hoping to rediscover his old spark. Brazilian football demands constant movement and high pressing, which does not always suit Ziyech’s playing style. He relies on small touches, spatial awareness, and sudden changes of direction. His true weapon is not pure speed but what he does with his ankle and how he reads space. The biggest question is whether Botafogo can build the right structure to maximize his strengths. There are also hidden risks in this free transfer. High wages, adaptation to the Brazilian calendar, and injury history can create problems. The club expects immediate results, but Ziyech may need time to adjust. If he is used as a central creative player and not forced into too much defensive work, he can be decisive. Otherwise, he may become the shadow of the player who once ruled Ajax’s attack. Botafogo fans love technical players with personality, but they are also demanding. Ziyech must prove that he still has the motivation to fight every match. His brief return to Wydad raised questions about his career plan, yet this long contract until 2028 shows that Botafogo believe in his potential for a late revival. The transfer is a bold bet. Ziyech will land in Brazil, sign the deal, and begin a new journey in a league unlike any he has known before. If the team around him is well organized, he can bring moments of magic. If not, the move could drift into decline. Still, this is a fascinating gamble, and all eyes will be on the first few months of Ziyech in Botafogo’s black and white shirt.