Al-Merrikh announce signing of Malian midfielder Ibrahima Traoré on long-term deal

Al-Merrikh SC have confirmed the signing of Malian defensive midfielder Ibrahima Traoré from Congolese side AS Otohô ahead of the new season.

Traore joins the Sudanese giants on a long-term contract that runs until 2029. The move marks an important step in Traoré’s career, as he makes the switch from the Congolese league to one of Sudan’s most decorated clubs.

Traoré joins Al-Merrikh after an impressive spell with AS Otohô, where he established himself as a reliable and disciplined presence in midfield. Known for his defensive awareness, ball recovery, and ability to break up opposition play, the Malian midfielder earned recognition for his consistency and tactical intelligence.

The club expressed strong confidence in the new signing, describing Al-Merrikh as a place “where championships are forged and legends are written,” underlining the high expectations that come with representing the Sudanese powerhouse.

By securing a contract until 2029, Al-Merrikh have demonstrated their long-term faith in the player’s abilities and potential contribution to the team’s future success. The move is part of a broader strategy by the club to build a competitive and balanced squad capable of challenging for league titles and performing strongly in African competitions.

Traoré is expected to bring stability and physical presence to Al-Merrikh’s midfield, offering protection to the defence while also helping to control the tempo of matches. His experience in Congolese football is seen as valuable, particularly in adapting quickly to the demands of a new league.

The Malian midfielder’s arrival has been welcomed by supporters, who are hopeful that his addition will strengthen the team’s core and improve their competitiveness in key fixtures. Al-Merrikh fans are already looking forward to seeing how he integrates into the squad and contributes to the club’s ambitions.

For Traoré, the move represents a significant milestone in his career, providing him with an opportunity to showcase his talent on a bigger stage and potentially compete in continental tournaments under the Al-Merrikh banner.

As preparations continue for the upcoming season, the club will be counting on the new signing to quickly settle in and deliver the consistency and discipline that defined his performances at AS Otohô.

With this signing, Al-Merrikh continue to reinforce their reputation as one of the leading clubs in African football, building a squad aimed at both immediate success and long-term dominance.