By In a surprising turn of events, Moroccan international Abderrazak Hamdallah has sealed a move from Al-Ittihad to Al Shabab, within the same Saudi Pro League. After three successful seasons with Al-Ittihad, where he played alongside stars like Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kanté, the 33-year-old striker is set for a new challenge. Al Shabab, which finished 8th last season, announced Hamdallah’s signing on their official X account.
Hamdallah’s tenure at Al-Ittihad was nothing short of prolific; he scored 68 goals in just 88 appearances, helping the club clinch two Saudi Pro League titles and a Saudi Arabian Cup. At Al Shabab, he will now compete with Senegalese forward Habib Diallo, whose underwhelming performance last season (5 goals in the league) has put his future at the club in doubt.
Despite the impressive stats and accolades in the Gulf, Hamdallah’s career carries a sense of what might have been, particularly due to his lack of experience in top European leagues. His lone European stint was with Norway’s Aalesunds FK during the 2013-2014 season, where he netted 19 goals in 30 matches. Post-Europe, his career journeyed through clubs in China, Qatar, and various Saudi teams, including stints with Guangzhou R&F, El Jaish SC, Al-Rayyan SC, and Al-Nassr FC.
Hamdallah’s international career with Morocco also remains a topic of debate; having earned 25 caps and scored 7 goals, many feel he never fully realized his potential on the global stage. His frustration was evident when he publicly criticized Moroccan coach Walid Regragui.
Anticipation is high to see how this seasoned striker will fare in his new endeavor with Al Shabab, as he continues to build on his remarkable reputation in the Gulf football scene.
