Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has labelled Hakim Ziyech a 'crazy talent' after seeing the Chelsea winger impress for Morocco at the World Cup. The 30-year-old guided his country to the semi-final of the competition, playing a crucial role in historic wins against the likes of Belgium, Spain and Portugal.
Ziyech arrived in Qatar largely out of favour under Graham Potter, starting just one Premier League game before the World Cup. While he has suffered various minor injuries this season, the Moroccan is yet to force himself back into the Chelsea starting lineup.
Unhappy with his opportunities at Stamford Bridge, Ziyech sought an exit in January. He was heavily linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain but, after paperwork complications, a move to the French capital collapsed.
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After a move to Les Parc des Princes fell through, Ziyech was handed a string of starts for Chelsea but then he quickly fell out of favour again. In an exclusive column on the 5th Stand app, Aubameyang heaped great praise on the winger, who will be looking to navigate his way back into the side soon.
"My good friend, Hakim Ziyech, is a crazy guy," the former Arsenal striker said. "Crazy talent. I am close to him, we have a good feeling with one another.
"To tell the truth, when I watched the World Cup, I was so happy for him. I know what it means to represent your country. I know what it means for him to play for Morocco."
While in Qatar for the World Cup, Ziyech was quizzed on his future by Netherlands outlet NOS. He was asked whether a return to the Eredivisie is on the cards.
As quoted by the Metro, the winger replied: "It's hard to say, difficult to say. We don't know what will happen in the winter. It's football, so it's difficult to say."
Then, upon Ziyech's return to Cobham after a move to PSG collapsed, Potter insisted that the maestro is committed to the club's vision this season. The Chelsea boss said: "He is a professional player.
"He understands the situation. He is committed to us. He is available for the squad against Fulham and he will be an important player for the rest of the season."
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