Rabat – Botafogo head coach Tite has commended Hakim Ziyech’s technical brilliance while outlining the areas where the Moroccan international must improve to boost his statistical output.
Speaking on Ziyech’s performance, Tite stressed that while the midfielder’s raw talent and quality are indisputable, translating those skill sets into higher goals and assists will require better physical sharpness and adaptation to the team’s system.
Ziyech started Botafogo’s secured 1-0 Brazilian league victory over Chapecoense on Saturday.
Tite substituted the Moroccan playmaker in the 55th minute of the match.
During the post-match press conference, the Botafogo boss was honest about Ziyech’s current state of readiness.
“Ziyech is primarily lacking in physical conditioning, match rhythm, and overall fitness,” he said.
While praising Ziyech’s natural talent, the Botafogo manager stressed that technical ability alone is not enough to succeed in the league, pointing out the specific areas the player must work on.
“His technical quality is impressive, but he needs to raise his performance tempo and improve his physical fitness to allow him to adapt to the rhythm of Brazilian football,” he added.
Concluding his assessment, the coach remained patient about Ziyech’s integration process.
“He will get used to the game here, reach the required fitness levels to perform better, and ultimately raise his overall level,” he concluded.
Ziyech joined Botafogo on a contract running until the end of 2028 after leaving Wydad Athletic Club.
The transfer marks a fresh chapter for Ziyech following a short stint at Wydad, where he registered nine goals and two assists across 16 matches.
