Hakim Ziyech: ‘Galatasaray is Over for Me, I Want to Leave in January’

Doha – Moroccan international Hakim Ziyech has made shocking statements about his current situation at Galatasaray, expressing his desire to leave the Turkish club during the upcoming transfer window.

According to Turkish media, the 31-year-old winger reportedly made these remarks during a conversation on a flight between Istanbul and Amsterdam.

“Galatasaray is over for me. I don’t want to play here, I’m leaving in January,” Ziyech stated, as reported by sports commentators Haluk Yürekli and Gökhan Dinç on their program “Spor Gecesi.”

The former Chelsea player also delivered harsh criticism of Galatasaray’s manager Okan Buruk, reportedly saying: “I have never seen a coach with such a low profile as Okan Buruk.”

When asked about the club’s championship prospects, Ziyech allegedly responded, “I don’t really care… Let them leave me alone, whatever happens. I already regret coming here.”

This latest development follows a series of tensions between Ziyech and the Turkish club.

Earlier in September, the Moroccan player deleted all Galatasaray-related photos from his Instagram account, initially sparking speculation about his future with the club.

His relationship with Galatasaray has been troubled, with the player receiving limited playing time, managing only 87 minutes across six matches without any goal contributions.

The situation has also affected Ziyech’s international career, with his lack of playing time reportedly being the reason for his absence from the Moroccan national team, according to national team coach Walid Regragui.

While Qatari club Al-Arabi appears to be the most likely destination for the Atlas Lion, reports from Qatar’s “Al-Kass” channel suggest that Egypt’s Al Ahly is also interested in securing Ziyech’s services, albeit on a one-month loan deal for the 2025 Club World Cup in the USA.

Other clubs monitoring his situation include France’s Stade Rennais, Greece’s Olympiakos, and Portuguese side Benfica, who have shown interest in a potential loan deal.

The player’s permanent move to Galatasaray, which was confirmed earlier this year, appears to be heading toward a premature end during the January transfer window.