Chelsea: Hakim Ziyech is the new Wizard of London

Chelsea wrapped up a win versus Crystal Palace on Saturday as the Eagles were gunned down one goal to nil in their own home, Selhurst Park. The lone goalscorer on the night was none other than the assassin himself, Hakim Ziyech. Although it was not a stellar performance from the Blues on the day, as their overall performance was underwhelming, Ziyech played quite well. He had his initial goal cancelled out due to offside and gave us something to think about with his 98′ volley. The Moroccan stood up above the rest and gave spectators the magic they all paid to see. Ziyech put on his usual show, but life hasn’t always been this way for him at his current club.

When it was announced on the February 14, 2020, that Chelsea had reached an agreement for the transfer of Ziyech for a fee of £40 million, a swarm of Chelsea fans were in high spirits. This is because the former Ajax man was widely known up to that point for his magical left foot, excellent technique, good dribbling skills and top notch creativity. This, at the time, was seriously lacking within Chelsea’s ranks. Even though the Blues also bought United States international Christian Pulisic the year before, the move for Ziyech seemed to many to be the smarter purchase.

Hakim Ziyech announces himself as the new London wizard for Chelsea

In his debut season, the 2020/21 campaign, the Moroccan tallied six goals and four assists in 46 appearances. His 10 goal involvements made for a decent debut showing, he was not bad for a player in his first season in a new league with a fresh squad. A lot of forwards have had worst returns during their first years as they adapt to the English top flight. Nevertheless, Ziyech’s on-field performances were pretty underwhelming, especially when compared to his statistics.

The appointment of Thomas Tuchel, heaped his woes as his tactics give no space for direct wingers like Ziyech. His initial performances under Tuchel were a shadow of his former self. Reports hinting at a potential move away from Stamford Bridge got louder and louder. Most Chelsea fans—especially fanatics like myself—already saw him as essentially a guarantee to leave the club during the January transfer window. However, he’s now become an integral part of the way in which Tuchel sets his teams up.

What changed between then and now?

Well, as we know, magic is an art of surprises. The Moroccan magician had no shortage of such qualities. He has turned up drastically this season in matches where the Blues have needed a savior. Ziyech is reminding football supporters of the player they all once knew back at Ajax. The former de Godenzonen star is now being widely considered the best Chelsea player so far for the calendar year.

Chelsea’s wizard now has seven goals and four assists—i.e. 10 goal involvements—this season in just 28 appearances, including six appearances off the bench. His goal involvements include one goal in the FA Cup, one in the UEFA Champions League and four in the Premier League. Compared to last season, Ziyech is on his way to being a real upgrade on the wing. It is only logical to say that Tuchel and the Chelsea board were right to keep him in the squad as he’s paying them back for their trust in him with his recent exciting performances. Ziyech has thrived in the Blues’ new and improved 4-1-4-1 system and it’s exciting to see. His exciting performances have not only energized the team, but also the fans. Look who’s back, it’s London’s very own wizard, Ziyech.

What have you made of Ziyech’s performances as of late? Let us know your thoughts in the comments or on Twitter!