Chelsea haven't gotten the best out of Hakim Ziyech and Hakim Ziyech hasn't gotten the best out of Chelsea. The Moroccan forward has taken his chance to prove his worth to world football, though, and his standout role in a 2-0 victory over Belgium has highlighted that.
Ziyech joined the Blues in 2020 but hasn't been able to consistently show the magic that attracted Chelsea too him from his time at Ajax, and with Graham Potter also not seeing where he fits in at Stamford Bridge, an exit appears close.
The 29-year-old was close to leaving over the summer but no deal could be reached, and as a second big summer in the market is set, Ziyech will be one of those angling for a move away.
READ MORE: Chelsea handed Cristiano Ronaldo warning by Lionel Messi amid huge £186m contract offer
In Qatar he has been able to focus his mind on other things though and has been part of a fresh looking Morocco team that are yet to concede after two games and have a great chance of progressing to the knockout stages. It was his assist in the win over Belgium that sealed the game, and new manager Walid Regragui has praised him, saying: "He’s incredible."
Ziyech's international career appeared to be over after falling out with previous boss Vahid Halihodzic, but Regragui has dispelled there being issues with Ziyech, adding: "A lot of people talk about Hakim as a difficult guy to manage but what I see is that, when you give him love and confidence, he will die for you.
"It is what I give him and he returns my confidence."
The winger has often looked like a player lacking confidence at Chelsea having been moved around by several managers, but international football can favour his laidback style. From the right hand side, and with explosive players around him, Ziyech is able to get time on the ball to wave his foot and catch opponents out.
Ziyech has 18 goals and 11 assists in 44 games for his country including one of each since returning to the fold five games ago. Since signing for Chelsea he has played 16 games, scoring four and assisting six.
Although it may be too late to rebuild confidence at SW6, it is a message for Potter and the Blues hierarchy that there may be some transfer value they can squeeze out of him.
READ NEXT:
Chelsea handed Cristiano Ronaldo warning by Lionel Messi amid huge £186m contract offer
Thiago Silva issues brilliant response to Trevoh Chalobah new Chelsea contract announcement
Chelsea suffer Jude Bellingham transfer blow as £108m Christopher Nkunku alternative emerges
Chelsea news: Todd Boehly 'close' to Chelsea signing as Cristiano Ronaldo next move decided
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: Latest news, rumours and gossip from Stamford Bridge
