Chelsea fans are all saying the same thing after Hakim Ziyech’s Champions League display for Galatasaray
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!In a noteworthy transfer move during the summer, Chelsea’s Hakim Ziyech, now 30, embarked on a new chapter in his career by joining Turkish football giants Galatasaray on a season-long loan, coupled with an option to buy, as reported by BBC. The Moroccan right-winger, who struggled to find his rhythm at Stamford Bridge, seems to have found his stride with Galatasaray, delivering a standout performance in a gripping Champions League encounter against Manchester United.
The clash unfolded in Istanbul, resulting in a dramatic 3-3 draw as both teams fiercely contested for qualification from Group A in the Champions League. Ziyech emerged as the star of the evening, showcasing his prowess with two goals and an assist in a remarkable individual display.
Notably, both of Ziyech’s goals came from free-kicks, a skill set that highlighted his left-footed finesse. While his stellar performance drew acclaim, it also cast a spotlight on the questionable performance of Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana, who faced criticism for his role in conceding the goals.
Beyond his goal-scoring and playmaking contributions, Ziyech displayed an unexpected facet of his game—tireless work rate—during the frenetic European night. This aspect of his performance surprised many, considering it’s not the attribute typically associated with the Moroccan international.
The reaction from Chelsea fans on social media was a mix of admiration and contemplation. Some supporters couldn’t help but wonder where this version of Ziyech was during his time with Chelsea. Despite possessing undeniable individual talent, Ziyech’s stint at Stamford Bridge yielded 14 goals and 13 assists in 107 appearances—a relatively modest return for a player of his caliber.
Earlier reports from The Athletic suggested that Ziyech was among the players Todd Boehly was keen to offload during the summer transfer window. The juxtaposition of his recent stellar performance against Manchester United with his Chelsea tenure fueled discussions among the Chelsea faithful, raising questions about the dynamics that led to Ziyech’s departure.
As Ziyech continues to make waves in Turkish football, Chelsea fans find themselves reflecting on what might have been and pondering the factors that influenced the Moroccan’s time at the London club.