Egyptian defender Ahmed Hegazi retires from football after career in four leagues
Ahmed Hegazi has announced his retirement from football after his contract with Neom, vowing to remain involved in the sport off the pitch.
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AIEgyptian defender Ahmed Hegazi has announced his retirement from football following the end of his contract with Neom, stressing that his decision does not mean stepping away from the sport he described as his passion and love. He added that his journey with football will continue off the pitch with the same ambition and determination.
Hegazi wrote on Instagram on Saturday: “Today, I announce my retirement from football as a player... but not from my passion and love for the game. Thank you to football for every moment, every challenge, every lesson, and every memory we created together.”
The Egyptian defender added: “My journey on the pitch has ended, but my journey with football continues with the same passion, ambition, and determination.”
Ahmed Hegazi, 35, enjoyed a career spanning several professional experiences, playing in the Egyptian, Italian, and English leagues before moving to the Saudi league.
Hegazi began his career with Ismaily and Al Ahly in Egypt, then played in Italy for Fiorentina and Perugia, before moving to the English Premier League with West Bromwich Albion. He concluded his professional career outside Egypt in Saudi Arabia, where he played for Al-Ittihad and Neom.
Hegazi won the Egyptian Premier League twice with Al Ahly and claimed the Saudi Pro League title once with Al-Ittihad.
On the international stage, Ahmed Hegazi earned 88 caps for the Egyptian national team between 2011 and 2024.