"My journey has ended": Egyptian centurion Ahmed Hegazi announces his retirement

Egyptian international defender Ahmed Hegazi has officially announced his retirement from professional football following the end of the 2025 /26 season with Saudi club Neom.

"My journey on the pitch has ended"

The 35 year old center back announced his decision through an emotional video shared across his social media platforms reflecting on the standout highlights of his 17 year professional career.

In a concise statement, Hegazi expressed deep gratitude for his time on the pitch:

"Today I announce my retirement from football as a player but not the retirement of my passion and love for it. Thank you to football for every moment, every challenge, every lesson and every memory created along the way. My journey on the pitch has ended but my journey with football continues with the same passion, ambition and determination"

A journeyman across Europe and the middle east

Hegazi’s senior career began in 2009 when he broke through as an 18 year old prodigy at Ismaily in the Egyptian Premier League. His towering physical presence and aerial dominance quickly caught the eye of European scouts leading to a move to Serie A outfit Fiorentina in 2012, followed by a loan stint at Perugia.

In the summer of 2015, Hegazi returned home to sign with Egyptian powerhouses Al Ahly where he re-established himself as the Premier League's top defender.

Two years later, he earned a dream move to the English Premier League with West Bromwich Albion. Hegazi spent three seasons in English football becoming a fan favorite for his fearless tackling and defensive grit.

In 2020, Hegazi made his way to the Saudi Pro League joining Al Ittihad. As club captain, he etched his name into local folklore by leading the Jeddah side to a memorable Saudi Pro League championship in the 2022 /23 season.

He completed the final chapter of his career after signing a 2 year deal with Saudi club Neom in the summer of 2024.

A centurion for the Pharaohs

On the international stage, Hegazi was a rock for the Egyptian national team for over a decade. Since making his senior international debut in 2011, he amassed over 100 caps for the Pharaohs.

His international resume spans virtually every major youth and senior tournament, including:

• FIFA U20 World Cup: 2009 & 2011
• Summer Olympics: London 2012
• Africa Cup of Nations: 2017 (Runner-up)
• FIFA World Cup: Russia 2018

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

Related teams and leagues

Egypt

Al Ahly SC