Hakim Ziyech opens up about his struggles to regain top form after moving to Qatar, as he works to rebuild his confidence.
Sometimes, a change of scenery is exactly what a player needs to revive their career, but for Hakim Ziyech, his move to Qatari side Al Duhail has so far been more about adaptation than instant resurgence.
The Moroccan playmaker, once known for his dazzling creativity, has admitted he is still far from his best as he works to regain both form and fitness in the Qatar Stars League.
Ziyech, 31, joined Al Duhail four weeks ago after a frustrating spell at Galatasaray, where injuries and a difficult relationship with manager Okan Buruk left him sidelined and searching for a fresh start.
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Though he arrived in Qatar with high hopes of rediscovering his rhythm, the adjustment has not been as smooth as he had anticipated.
Al Duhail’s season has been mixed, and while they boast a squad filled with talent—including Kenyan striker Michael Olunga—Ziyech is yet to produce the kind of performances fans expected.
The midfielder is still getting used to the league’s pace, his teammates, and the physical demands of playing regularly again.
“I’m working every day to get back to my best,” Ziyech said in a recent interview as per Morocco World News.
“It’s a gradual process, but I’m confident that I will get there.”
Al Duhail manager Christophe Galtier, who previously coached at Paris Saint-Germain, echoed Ziyech’s sentiments.
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The Frenchman admitted that the Moroccan playmaker is not yet at his usual level but believes it’s only a matter of time before he rediscovers his rhythm.
“Ziyech has unbelievable quality, but we must be patient,” Galtier said.
“He is adapting to a new league, a new environment, and after a tough time in Turkey, he needs time to get his sharpness back. We’re supporting him because we know what he can offer when fully fit.”
Despite his struggles, Ziyech remains an important figure in the squad. His technical ability, vision, and creativity make him a key asset for Al Duhail, who are aiming to challenge for the Qatar Stars League title.
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Kenyan forward Olunga, one of the club’s most prolific goal scorers, will be hoping Ziyech can quickly find form and provide the kind of service he thrives on.
But Ziyech’s concerns extend beyond club football. With Morocco’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers fast approaching, his place in the national team is under threat.
Morocco national team head coachWalid Regragui has an abundance of attacking options, including the in-form Chemsdine Talbi, Soufiane Rahimi, and the returning Amine Adli.
If Ziyech does not hit top gear soon, he risks being left out of Morocco’s plans.