Former Arsenal and England striker Ian Wright has explained why Hakim Ziyech is flourishing at the World Cup despite his struggles at Chelsea
Prior to the January transfer window, Ziyech is heavily linked with a move away from west London due to his mainly underwhelming performance at Stamford Bridge.
The 29-year-old made an impact at Ajax before heading to England in 2020, but this season he has only made one Premier League start.
Ziyech has contributed to Morocco’s spectacular and historic run to the World Cup semifinals in Qatar, despite his problems at Stamford Bridge.
Morocco, who had a new manager appointed shortly before the competition, won its group ahead of 2018 runners-up Croatia and No. 2 ranked Belgium.
After defeating Spain on penalties, Walid Regragui’s team eliminated Portugal to advance as the first country from Africa to the World Cup semifinals.
When Morocco faces the current World Cup champions France on Wednesday night for a spot in the 2022 championship game, they will look to advance one step further.
Wright has praised Morocco for their historic World Cup run and claims to have ‘liked’ seeing Ziyech succeed, saying he brings a “different intensity” to the field for his nation than he does for Chelsea.
He said on the Wrighty’s House podcast, “I’m loving Hakim Ziyech during this World Cup, I’m loving him.” I adore how he is playing.
When he plays for his country, he plays with a new vigor. I don’t mean to sound critical while I watch him play for Chelsea, but this man needs it when he’s representing Morocco.
“Remember he had all those issues with the [previous] coach, he wasn’t playing, then the coach is gone, and look where they are now,” was the statement.
Ziyech’s World Cup performances have also impressed former Manchester United captain Roy Keane, who said Ziyech “seems like a new player” in Qatar.
Morocco has played well when they have the ball despite playing deep throughout this tournament. They have been tenacious, strong, and aggressive. I didn’t see it coming, and they have been magnificent,” Keane told Sky Bet.
“Hakim Ziyech appears like a different player. It’s a different environment. Players can occasionally struggle at the club level, but the World Cup and international football can fit other personalities better.”
Ziyech appears to have a large personality for Morocco, but you can’t say the same for Chelsea at the club level.
Morocco will face the defending champions France in the semifinals, while Argentina will face Croatia in the other last-four match.