Hakim Ziyech’s move to Qatar’s Al-Duhail marks the next step in his career following his departure from Galatasaray. The talented Moroccan midfielder, 31, leaves the Turkish club after an eventful but short stint, transitioning to the Qatar Stars League on a free transfer.
His new chapter will see him play under former Paris Saint-Germain coach, Christophe Galtier. Here’s everything you need to know about Ziyech’s exit from Galatasaray and his arrival in Qatar.
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The Move to Al-Duhail: A New Beginning
Al-Duhail, one of the top clubs in the Qatar Stars League, confirmed the signing of Hakim Ziyech on Thursday. The club, which has already made strides in the region, will now benefit from the expertise of the Moroccan international, who brings with him a wealth of experience. Ziyech’s arrival was officially announced in a statement by the club’s leaders:
“Al-Duhail Sports Club succeeded in obtaining the signature of Moroccan international player Hakim Ziyech.”
His move comes after a series of unfortunate circumstances at Galatasaray, where his relationship with the club had soured. Despite being one of the standout performers during Morocco’s remarkable World Cup campaign in 2022, his time in Turkey was marred by injuries and dissatisfaction with his role in the team.
Ziyech’s Struggles at Galatasaray
Ziyech initially joined Galatasaray in August 2023 on loan from Chelsea. The expectation was that he would bolster the club’s attack and contribute heavily to their efforts in both domestic and European competitions. However, things did not unfold as planned. After his loan spell, Galatasaray secured his permanent signing in June 2024, but Ziyech faced multiple injuries during the season.
The 31-year-old suffered both MCL and ACL injuries, which sidelined him for significant periods, hampering his ability to contribute consistently on the field. These injury setbacks, along with a strained relationship with manager Okan Buruk, led to Ziyech’s frustration. Reports suggested that Ziyech’s role within the team had diminished, which ultimately led him to declare his intent to leave.
“I don’t want to play here anymore. I’m leaving in January,” Ziyech told journalist Haluk Yurekli, expressing his frustration with the situation at Galatasaray.
Dissatisfaction and Departure from Galatasaray
Ziyech’s displeasure was not just limited to his playing time; he also criticized the management at Galatasaray. In a pointed remark, the Moroccan international lashed out at his coach, saying, “I’ve never seen a coach of such a low level.” This frank assessment revealed his unhappiness with the coaching setup at the Turkish club, further signaling his desire to move on.
Although he was contracted to stay with Galatasaray until June 2025, the midfielder’s departure was expedited. His dissatisfaction with his current circumstances led to a mutual parting of ways, and within days, he found a new home at Al-Duhail.
Rumors and Speculation About His Next Move
Before finalizing his move to Al-Duhail, Ziyech had been linked with several other clubs. Among the teams rumored to be interested in securing his services were Serie A giants Napoli and French club Lille. According to sports journalist Fabrizio Romani, Ziyech had reached a verbal agreement with Al-Duhail, signaling that the Qatari club had emerged as his top choice.
Simultaneously, reports from the UAE had suggested that Ziyech was on the verge of joining Al Nasr, another prominent club in the Middle East. However, the Moroccan ultimately chose Al-Duhail, where he will reunite with coach Christophe Galtier, who previously managed him at PSG.
Ziyech’s Legacy: From Chelsea to Galatasaray and Beyond
Ziyech’s football journey has been anything but ordinary. He rose to prominence at Ajax, where his dazzling performances earned him a move to Chelsea. With the Blues, Ziyech secured major trophies, including the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA Club World Cup. He was also an essential part of the Moroccan team’s journey to the World Cup semi-finals in 2022, cementing his place as one of Africa’s top talents.
Despite the struggles at Galatasaray, Ziyech remains a skilled and experienced player capable of making an impact wherever he goes. His move to Al-Duhail offers him the chance to reinvigorate his career in a new environment, playing under a manager he has worked with before and in a league that is gaining prominence across the Middle East.
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FAQs
Why did Hakim Ziyech leave Galatasaray?
kim Ziyech left Galatasaray due to a combination of injuries and dissatisfaction with his role under coach Okan Buruk, leading him to request an early departure in January.
Which club did Hakim Ziyech join after leaving Galatasaray?
Ziyech officially joined Al-Duhail, a club in the Qatar Stars League, on a free transfer after leaving Galatasaray.
How long did Ziyech play for Galatasaray?
Ziyech joined Galatasaray on loan in August 2023, then signed permanently in June 2024 but departed early in January 2025.
Who is the coach of Al-Duhail, Ziyech’s new team?
Ziyech will be playing under former Paris Saint-Germain manager Christophe Galtier at Al-Duhail.
What major trophies has Hakim Ziyech won in his career?
Ziyech has won the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA Club World Cup with Chelsea, as well as playing a key role in Morocco’s World Cup semi-final run in 2022.
