Hakim Ziyech admits that settling in Chelsea has been hampered by the COVID-19 lockdown, and the forward misses his family.
The 28-year-old’s summer move from Ajax to Stamford Bridge was agreed well in advance, but nothing could have prepared him for how difficult it would be.
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We have yet to see the best of Ziyech in a Chelsea jersey
Not only did Chelsea sign many more players at his position, Ziyech would also suffer a preseason injury that ruled him out for what should have been his first month in the Blues jersey.
Then came another confinement, which prevented the Moroccan from seeing his family and settling properly in his new home.
Chelsea fans have seen glimpses of the creative genius that lit up the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam, particularly when he stepped aside, but not as much as they might have hoped.
Four goals and four assists in 29 appearances is well below his high standards, and he has started the last three games on the bench.
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Ziyech came from the Netherlands with a great reputation
Summer teammates Timo Werner and Kai Havertz have also struggled to adjust, but how difficult must it be for young players to get acquainted with life in a new country right now?
“No, it’s not [easy]”Ziyech tells talkSPORT. “It is a difficult time right now for everyone.
“I came here and at the beginning it was still possible to fly and return, but in October or September, I don’t know when the borders closed, since then I haven’t seen my family.
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Ziyech isn’t the only big-name signing taking time to find his feet at Chelsea this season.
“I am used to having my mother close and my sisters and brothers, that was not possible.
“Most of the time you are alone. And it is more difficult than many people think.
“You just have to accept it and move on. At least my PlayStation works! I spend time there.
Both former Chelsea boss Frank Lampard and current manager Thomas Tuchel have given Ziyech a series of games on and off the flank, perhaps without being able to determine the best way to use it.
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Ziyech has spent a lot of time on the bench in recent weeks
At Ajax, Ziyech played in numerous positions, mainly on the right wing, despite occasionally falling in midfield or working as a number 10.
With such talent, it’s surely only a matter of time before it translates into real effectiveness, but in the meantime, Ziyech only cares that the team finds the net.
“For me personally, it doesn’t matter who scores, if I score or give assists,” he added.
“It is more important that the ball enters, not who does it. If I hit the ball or score, it doesn’t matter. I have more assists than goals, sure, but it doesn’t matter. “
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Ziyech scored a crucial Chelsea goal against Atlético
The highlight of Ziyech’s season so far has undoubtedly been his goal against Atlético de Madrid in the knockout stages of the Champions League, but he hopes to make more memories this Saturday.
Chelsea face Manchester City in the FA Cup semi-final, live on talkSPORT at 5.30pm, and Ziyech is eager to see the iconic Wembley Stadium for the first time.
He continued: “I didn’t really grow up knowing Wembley, it’s only been a couple of years since I played professional football.
“I know it’s a nice big stadium and I think everyone who plays soccer wants to play in stadiums like this one. This weekend I’m going to enjoy it «.
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