Benatia: 'I had tried to get Ziyech to come to Roma'

Medhi Benatia wanted his compatriot Hakim Ziyech to join Roma but the Ajax forward opted for Premier League action with Chelsea.

Chelsea secured the signing of Hakim Ziyech. The Morocco international impressed the Blues with his performances against them in the Champions League group stage.

Chelsea have splashed €40 million on securing Ziyech’s services. The 27-year-old became their first signing under Frank Lampard.

Medhi Benatia had other plans and wanted Ziyech to join him at Roma. The experienced defender even contacted Totti and Dzeko, putting a good word in for him and pushing for a transfer.

“I had tried to get him to come to Roma, and he would’ve run to join this club,” Football Italia quoted Benatia.

“I spoke to Francesco Totti and Edin Dzeko, telling them that this is the man they want. As a director, Francesco did everything he could to get the deal concluded, but Pallotta said it would be ‘an excessive expense’ and nothing ever came of it.”

Ziyech has impressed Benatia, but it is Achraf Hakimi who he believes is the best player for Morocco. The Real Madrid youth academy graduate joined Inter Milan and Benati advised him in favor of it.

“Hakimi is probably the jewel in the crown of this generation of Moroccan players. He is already one of the five best wing-backs in Europe, while in a couple of years, he’ll be contending Trent Alexander-Arnold of Liverpool for first place.”

“Hakimi called me before he signed for Inter. I told him Italy was the best move he could possibly make,” added Benatia.

“It was also perfect, as Inter will help him to grow tactically. Everyone wanted him, from PSG to Bayern Munich, but he can refine his talent and become a more complete player in Italy, especially with a coach like Antonio Conte.”