Casablanca – Moroccan international Hakim Ziyech has spoken about the deep connection he feels with Morocco and how representing it has remained a source of pride throughout his career.
In an interview with Botafogo TV, Ziyech reflected on what it means to carry the Moroccan identity from childhood and represent the national team on the international stage.
“I will always be proud to be Moroccan. It is something you are born with. Honestly, it is something you carry from childhood, you grow up with it and live with it,” Ziyech said.
The 33-year-old added that representing Morocco has been particularly meaningful because it was a choice he made himself and one that allowed him to share major moments with the national team.
“It is very special, especially in my case, to choose my country and to be able to achieve such great success with my country,” he added.
A Special Bond With Morocco
Ziyech was born in the Netherlands to Moroccan parents and chose to represent Morocco at international level, making his senior debut in 2015.
He went on to become one of the most recognizable figures in the Atlas Lions’ recent history, playing an important role in Morocco’s run to the 2022 FIFA World Cup semifinals in Qatar.
Morocco became the first African and Arab team to reach the final four of a World Cup, defeating Belgium, Spain and Portugal during their historic campaign before losing to France in the semifinals.
Ziyech has represented Morocco at the 2018 and 2022 World Cups and has scored 25 goals in 64 appearances for the national team.
His latest comments come after he began a new chapter in Brazil with Botafogo, signing a contract with the Rio de Janeiro club through the end of 2028 following his departure from Wydad AC.
The move marks Ziyech’s return to club football outside Morocco after spells with Ajax, Chelsea, Galatasaray and Al-Duhail.
He made his Botafogo debut earlier this month, featuring in the second half of the club’s Brazilian league defeat to Mirassol. Botafogo coach Tite subsequently said he accelerated Ziyech’s introduction after seeing the Moroccan’s technical quality.
