Moroccan signing at Corinthians unfazed by Ramadan: "No impact" | OneFootball

Reinforcement for Corinthians for 2026, the Moroccan midfielder Zakaria Labyad is observing Ramadan, the holy month for Muslims. However, during his introduction at the CT Dr. Joaquim Grava last Tuesday, the player downplayed the impact of the custom on his routine as a football athlete.

This year, Ramadan extends from February 17 to March 19. The practice involves fasting from dawn until sunset, with the aim of promoting reflection, solidarity with others, and closeness among the faithful of Allah, the word used in Islam to refer to God.

Zakaria Labyad said he has been practicing Ramadan since he was 14 years old and does not feel affected on the field. He even maintained the custom during his time playing in China, despite the intense heat.

“I have been doing Ramadan since I was 14. My best game was during a Ramadan. It does not affect my performance. I rest well during the day. When the sun sets, I start eating again. I see no difficulty with it. It doesn't affect me,” said the Moroccan.

“I played in China for the last two years. I played matches in 40°C heat. I didn't know China was so hot. Here I won't have difficulties, it's almost the same climate as China. Of course, it's a bit more challenging during Ramadan, but it doesn't affect me in training or games. I always did my Ramadan in China, and I felt good,” he added.

Controversial Signing

The arrival of Zakaria Labyad caused controversy at Corinthians. In a press conference, coach Dorival Júnior said he did not request the player's signing. The Moroccan's name was suggested by Memphis Depay to Renan Bloise, head of the scouting department. He played with the Dutchman at the beginning of his career at PSV.

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The 32-year-old midfielder joins Corinthians with a contract until the end of this year. The agreement contains an automatic renewal clause for another season if the player meets pre-established goals.

The Moroccan was without a club after leaving Dalian Yingbo in China. He scored six goals and provided four assists in 25 matches for the Asian team. Previously, he played for Yunnan Yukun, also in China, FC Utrecht, Ajax, PSV, and Vitesse in the Netherlands, Fulham in England, and Sporting in Portugal.

Labyad has not yet debuted for Corinthians and is in the process of physical reconditioning. According to the player, he should be available to coach Dorival Júnior starting next week. He was one of six reinforcements signed by the club for 2026, alongside Gabriel Paulista, Matheus Pereira, Pedro Milans, Kaio César, and Allan.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.