Ahmed Hegazi, the accomplished Egyptian defender who spent 17 seasons at elite European and Middle Eastern clubs, has officially retired from professional football at age 35. The veteran centre-back, who departed Neom following the 2024-25 campaign, confirmed his decision to hang up his boots on Saturday. Rather than step away entirely, Hegazi is poised to remain embedded in Saudi football through an off-pitch opportunity with his outgoing club.
According to Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat, Neom is preparing to transition the retiring defender into an administrative position within the club's organisational structure. The specific nature of the role has not been disclosed, though the club has pledged to announce details in the coming days. This move sits within a broader restructuring effort at Neom, affecting both technical and administrative departments as the club navigates its operations in the Saudi Roshn League.
A Career Spanning Three Continents
Hegazi's playing journey reflected the calibre of his defensive work. After establishing himself domestically with Ismaily and Al-Ahly in Egypt, he tested himself across Europe, representing Italian clubs Fiorentina and Perugia before securing a move to West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League. His most impactful spell, however, came at Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. Signed in summer 2020, Hegazi became instrumental in the club's 2023 Saudi League title win—a drought-breaking achievement that snapped a 14-year trophy drought. He also helped secure the Super Cup during that successful period.
Hegazi joined Neom in 2024 and contributed to the club's promotion from the Yelo First Division, helping them earn their place in the Roshn League. He completed one campaign at the top tier before deciding his time as a player had reached its natural conclusion. His transition into management or sporting roles would allow his experience—honed across England, Italy, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia—to continue shaping the next generation of talent.
As Neom formalises Hegazi's new position, the club signals its intent to retain institutional knowledge from a defender whose career spanned multiple continents and defined defensive solidity at every level.
