Moroccan international Hakim Ziyech has confirmed his intention to depart Galatasaray during the January transfer window, citing dissatisfaction with the club and its coach, Okan Buruk. In comments attributed to Ziyech by Turkish media, the former Chelsea and Ajax star expressed regret about joining the Turkish champions, adding fuel to speculation about his next destination.
“Galatasaray is over for me,” Ziyech reportedly stated during a trip from Istanbul to Amsterdam. “I’ve told them I’m leaving in January. They don’t ask me anything anymore, I do what I want. I’ve never seen a coach as bad as Okan Buruk.”
He dismissed any concern for the club’s success, saying, “If Galatasaray win the title? I don’t care… I already regret coming.”
The Moroccan forward, who joined Galatasaray last summer, has struggled for form, failing to score in 11 appearances this season.
Interest From Benfica and Rennes
Despite his turbulent stint in Turkey, Ziyech is attracting interest from prominent European clubs. Turkish newspaper Fanatik has linked him with Portugal’s Benfica and France’s Rennes.
Potential Suitors:
- Benfica: A move to Lisbon would reunite Ziyech with Champions League football and an ambitious side competing at the top of the Portuguese league.
- Rennes: The French club, currently competing in Ligue 1 and European tournaments, could offer Ziyech a chance to rebuild his career in a competitive environment.
A Career of Highs and Lows
Ziyech’s career has seen notable successes, including stellar performances at Ajax, where he helped the Dutch club reach the Champions League semi-finals in 2019. He also lifted the Champions League trophy with Chelsea in 2021 but struggled to maintain consistency in the Premier League.
His current contract with Galatasaray runs until June 2025, but his departure in January appears inevitable.
As the January transfer window approaches, Ziyech’s next move will be closely watched, with fans and analysts wondering if the talented playmaker can rediscover his form at a new club.
