Rabat – Moroccan international footballer Hakim Ziyech has expressed his happiness after moving to Qatari club Al-Duhail from Galatasaray.
Speaking after his first match with Al-Duhail on Friday, Ziyech said he feels free and comfortable playing in Qatar.
“Being in this country is amazing. You feel more free, everything is smooth, especially in a Muslim country like Qatar. Everything feels perfect for me,” he told Qatari channel Al-Kass.
Ziyech also shared his thoughts on his debut match, where Al-Duhail won 2-1 against Umm Salal. He admitted that he is still working on regaining his form after not playing for a long time.
“I feel good. This was my first match in a while, but step by step, I will get back to my best, and we will enjoy it more,” he said.
The Qatari club announced signing the Atlas Lion on Thursday, presenting Ziyech as a “strong addition” to the team’s offensive line.
In its announcement, Al Duhail recalled Ziyech’s remarkable performance during the 2022 World Cup, as well as his experience with top clubs.
“The Club Management welcomes the veteran Moroccan lion, Hakim Ziyech, to the ranks of the Tornado and wishes him a wonderful career full of achievements with the team,” concluded the statement.
Ziyech faced a difficult time with his previous clubs Galatasaray and Chelsea. At Chelsea, he struggled with being benched for long periods, which affected his playing time and his relationship with the team.
Ziyech faced additional challenges at Galatasaray, especially with the coach. He reportedly had personal issues with the manager, who he criticized as being of “low level.”
The move to Al Duhail seems to have been a much needed change for the Atlas Lion.
