Moroccan star Hakim Ziyech leaves Wydad AC after dispute

The Casablanca giants announced the decision on Sunday, thanking the experienced attacker for his time at the club while wishing him success in the next chapter of his career.

"Sometimes, some stories are shorter than we wished, but they leave an unforgettable mark," Wydad said in a statement.

Ziyech joined Wydad with considerable expectations following a career that included spells at Ajax, Chelsea and Galatasaray. His arrival was viewed as a major coup for the Moroccan club, but his time in Casablanca ultimately lasted much shorter than anticipated.

His departure follows growing tension between the player and Wydad's new management.

The disagreement reportedly centred on Ziyech's contract and salary, with the club seeking a reduction in his wages while the 33-year-old remained firm on the terms of his existing agreement.

The situation escalated when Ziyech was left out of Wydad's match against Renaissance Zemamra. He was subsequently excluded from the club's training camp in Agadir and reportedly instructed to train separately at the Mohamed Benjelloun complex.

Ziyech later brought a bailiff to the training facility to document the situation, amid reports that the dispute could potentially have been taken to the relevant football authorities.

However, the two parties have now avoided a prolonged legal battle by reaching an agreement to end their relationship.

Wydad said Ziyech's brief spell would nevertheless remain part of the club's story.

"You were one of us, and you will always remain part of the Wydad family," the club said.

The Moroccan giants also stressed that a player's legacy is not determined solely by the length of time spent at a club, but by the memories and emotions created.

Ziyech can now focus on finding his next club as he enters the market as a free agent.