It didn’t take long for Hakim Ziyech to show just why Chelsea paid £33.3 million to sign him as the Moroccan made his first appearance for the Blues against Brighton on Saturday.Ziyech played a huge part in Chelsea’s opener just three minutes into the match, floating a perfectly-weighted pass into the area that led to Timo Werner’s goal.Unfortunately, the 27-year-old limped off in the second half after appearing to hurt his ankle. Chelsea will be hopeful that it’s nothing serious.Ziyech has been a part of a crazy summer of spending at Stamford Bridge.It’s not always easy when a large number of players are brought in in one go but Ziyech’s link-up with Werner suggests they’ve had no problems adjusting to each other’s game during the pre-season.And it’s not just the German striker who will benefit from Ziyech’s skills.
Ziyech's individual highlightsHe possesses a swagger that’s instantly noticeable when he’s on the ball and and an eye for a pass, too.A two-minute video of his individual highlights has now emerged on Twitter and it’s left Chelsea supporters eager to see more of the former Ajax man.“I’m psyched man,” wrote one fan. “Ziyech just commands the ball effortlessly.”Another added: “He’s already my favourite player. What a vision and calmness on the ball. The left foot is magic.”
Chelsea’s pre-season friendly against Brighton finished 1-1, with Pascal Gross scoring a late penalty.
The game was an important one not just for preparation purposes, but for the return of football fans to stadiums.
2,500 spectators were allowed into Brighton’s Amex Stadium as part of the government’s scheme to bring fans back.
Track-and-trace and social distancing rules were in place. Here’s how it looked inside the ground…
Think you’d fancy watching football like that?
We’re guessing Chelsea fans would happily sign up if Ziyech is in action.