Egyptian football icon Shikabala makes U-turn from retirement at age 40

Egyptian football icon Mahmoud Abdel-Razek Shikabala has announced plans to come out of retirement after two-year absence from professional football.

Shikabala is expected to return to competitive football with G Club in January 2026, who currently play in the second division following calls from friends to resume his playing career.

“I will return to the field through G Club next January. My friends are urging me to play for G Club.”

The 40-year-old retired from professional football at the end of the 2024 season after a career spanning two decades, most notably with Zamalek, where he became one of the club’s greatest-ever players.

Following his retirement, Shikabala took up the presidency of G Club, but he is now set to combine his administrative role with a return to playing football.

His final season with Zamalek ended on a high note as he helped the club win the Egyptian Cup after defeating Pyramids in the final.

The experienced attacker made 393 appearances for Zamalek, scoring 70 goals and providing 88 assists during his spell with the club.

His journey with the White Castle began on January 16, 2003, when he scored the winning goal against Ghazl El Mahalla in the Egypt Cup round of 16.

During his illustrious career with Zamalek, Shikabala won 18 trophies, making him the most decorated player in the club’s history and cementing his status as a legendary figure among the club’s supporters.