Ziyech reveals Lampard connection that convinced him to choose Chelsea
According to the Ditch outlet Voetbal International (h/t Daily Mail), Ajax Amsterdam star Hakim Ziyech has opened up on the personal connection with Chelsea manager Frank Lampard. He credits this as the reason for his imminent move to London.
The Moroccon international is the first signing by the Blues boss since taking charge in 2019. Having cost £37million, Ziyech is set to join the club at the end of the season.
The 27-year-old impressed at the Johan Cruijff Arena and scored 8 goals and 21 assists in 35 club appearances this season.
The current Eredivisie season was cancelled following the coronavirus pandemic, a decision that has not gone down well with the player. His reaction is understandable considering Ajax were on top of the table.
He is now ready to put that disappointment behind him and begin afresh in England. He is excited about the move and feels the club is a good fit.
“Chelsea is a very big and nice club. There are a lot of talented youngsters, which puts me in a position I’m used to after the last three-and-a-half years at Ajax.”
He is a fan of Lampard’s attacking style and has termed the Chelsea boss as a calm and collected person. The impression has been such that he was convinced to make the move to the Bridge.
“We immediately felt a connection, which also convinced me to make this decision.”
Ziyech views the move as a challenge more than a struggle. He is looking forward to playing for Chelsea and we can say that the feeling is mutual.
Chelsea legend Didier Drogba is among the players the Moroccan watched and admired. He hopes to leave a similar legacy at the Bridge.
The coronavirus pandemic has currently brought the season to a halt, calling into question as to when football will resume. Ziyech is willing to wait and has termed a move to the Premier League as a dream come true.
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The 27-year-old is a fan of the Premier League, a competition he describes as the most intense in the world. If his performances for Ajax are anything to go by, he should fit in like a glove.