Egyptian defender Ahmed Hegazi has officially announced his retirement from professional football, bringing an end to a distinguished career that spanned nearly 17 years across Egypt, Italy, England, and Saudi Arabia.
The 35-year-old confirmed his decision on July 25, 2026, following the conclusion of his time with Saudi club NEOM. In his farewell message, Hegazi expressed gratitude for every experience the game had given him and made it clear that, although his playing career had ended, his passion for football would continue.
From Ismaily to European Football
Born in Ismailia, Hegazi began his senior career with Ismaily in 2009 and quickly emerged as one of Egypt’s most promising defenders.
His performances earned him a move to Italian side Fiorentina in 2012. Despite suffering serious knee injuries during his time in Italy, Hegazi continued his career with Perugia before returning to Egypt to join Al Ahly.
At Al Ahly, he re-established himself as a leading centre-back and won major domestic honors before returning to Europe with West Bromwich Albion in 2017.
A Memorable Spell in England
Hegazi became a popular figure at West Brom after making an immediate impression in English football. He initially joined the club on loan before completing a permanent transfer later that year.
The Egyptian defender represented the Baggies in both the Premier League and the Championship, earning recognition for his physical presence, aerial strength, and committed defensive performances.
His time in England also helped establish him as one of the most prominent Egyptian defenders to compete in European football.
Success with Al-Ittihad
In 2020, Hegazi moved to Saudi Arabia to join Al-Ittihad, initially on loan before making the transfer permanent.
He later became an important leader within the squad and helped Al-Ittihad win the 2022/23 Saudi Pro League title and the Saudi Super Cup. His determination was particularly evident during the club’s title-winning campaign, when he continued playing despite sustaining an injury in the decisive stages of the season.
Hegazi left Al-Ittihad in 2024 and joined NEOM, where he spent the final two seasons of his professional career. The Saudi club confirmed his departure at the end of May 2026.
A Long Journey with the Egyptian National Team
Hegazi’s international career was equally significant. After representing Egypt at youth level, he became a regular member of the senior national team and took part in several of the country’s most important tournaments.
He represented Egypt at the 2012 Olympic Games, the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations, the 2018 FIFA World Cup, the 2021 FIFA Arab Cup, and the Tokyo Olympics. FIFA previously highlighted his journey from the 2009 U-20 World Cup in Egypt to the biggest international stages in the game.
Hegazi was also part of the Egyptian side that reached the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations final and played a central role in the generation that ended Egypt’s 28-year absence from the World Cup by qualifying for Russia 2018.
Tributes from Egyptian Football
Following his announcement, the Egyptian Football Association paid tribute to the defender, praising him for securing his place among the country’s leading football figures and thanking him for his contribution to the national team.
Mohamed Salah also shared a personal farewell message for his longtime teammate, reflecting on a relationship that began when the two represented Egypt at youth level and continued throughout their senior international careers.
The End of an Era
Hegazi retires as one of the most recognizable Egyptian defenders of his generation. His career was shaped not only by trophies and major tournaments, but also by his ability to recover from difficult injuries and compete across four different footballing countries.
While he has stepped away from playing, Hegazi suggested that his connection to the sport is far from over. Reports have linked him with a possible off-field role at NEOM, although his next move has not yet been officially confirmed.
From Ismaily to Italy, England, Saudi Arabia, and the Egyptian national team, Ahmed Hegazi leaves behind a career defined by resilience, leadership, and commitment.
