Speaking to Ajax TV (h/t Express), Ajax Amsterdam boss Erik ten Hag has warned Frank Lampard that Hakim Ziyech can be difficult to work with.
The 27-year old is set to join Chelsea this summer after agreeing to a £33.4million move back in February.
Ten Haag has not had the best of relationships with the Moroccon international. This has not stopped him from praising the brilliance that the winger brings to the pitch.
“He sees things that others don’t see. Sometimes he is a trainer’s nightmare, but you have to give him space.”
Ziyech played a key role in the Dutch giants’ run to the UEFA Champions League semifinals in 2018-19. The Blues were given a front-row seat to his ability as he made three assists in the 4-4 draw at Stamford Bridge this season.
Rather than take it as a criticism, the underlying tones of admiration are clear in the Dutch boss’s words.
Describing Ziyech as a headstrong player, Ten Haag believes it is the same trait that also makes him an excellent player.
“He is a character, headstrong. But that also makes him brilliant.”
The move to Chelsea will be the player’s first foray outside the Netherlands. The 27-year-old has spent his entire career in the Eredivisie. He has made the team of the year three times, also winning the Dutch Player of the Year award in 2018.
A player who can see things that others can’t, he has been the top assist maker in the Eredivisie four times. His eye for a pass should be music to the ears of Christian Pulisic and Timo Werner.
Ziyech is an incredible signing who can help us unlock the full potential of our forwards. A fierce competitor, he will bring the winner’s mentality to what is a young team.
Football has a way of making different personalities get together. Our relationship with Ziyech promises to be a rewarding one for everyone involved.
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