Football General Manager
- Crew sign Abou Ali as new DP
- Forward joins for reported $7.5 million fee
- Palestine International was breakout star of CWC
The Columbus Crew has signed a new Designated Player in Wessam Abou Ahli of Al Ahly in Egypt.
The 26-year-old Palestine international cost a reported $7.5M fee and up to an additional $1M in add-ons. He joins on a contract through 2027, with an option for 2028, and will occupy a DP slot alongside Diego Rossi and Daniel Gazdag for the Eastern Conference side.
At the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States this summer, the forward scored three goals, being one of the breakout performers of the competition.
“Wessam is a special player whose journey speaks to his resilience, character, and tireless work ethic, which are qualities we value at our club,” said Crew general manager Issa Tall.
“He is a proven goal-scorer who knows what it takes to help his team win. His clinical finishing, energy, and charisma will strengthen our squad, and we are confident that he will thrive within our system.”
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At Al Ahly, Abou Ali scored 38 goals and recorded 10 assists in 60 matches across all competitions. He won four titles with the club, including the 2023-24 CAF Champions League, and at the CWC this summer, bagged a hat-trick against FC Porto in the Group Stage.
During the 2023-24 Egyptian Premier League season, he won the Golden Boot.
Internationally, he has four goals in 10 appearances with Palestine.
“The Haslam, Johnson, and Edwards families continue to show their commitment to the club’s long-term success, including through investing in the roster, improving our facilities, and supporting our academy,” Tall said. “This signing is also the result of Wilfried, Marc, and our entire soccer operations team collaborating and establishing a clear vision over many months. We’ll continue to strengthen the roster together through our One Club focus as we remain committed to contending for championships.”
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The Crew were named MLS Cup champions in 2023, and followed it up in 2024 with a CONCACAF Champions Cup final appearance, and a Leagues Cup title. With Abou Ali added to their ranks, they’ll now look to secure a piece of silverware for the third-straight season.
The Crew report to the pitch Tuesday evening for their Leagues Cup opener, when they take on Toluca. The match will serve as the first chance for Abou Ali to debut for the club.
