Ahmed Hegazi retires from playing as former Egypt defender eyes future role at Saudi club Neom

Ahmed Hegazi has brought an end to his playing career at the age of 35, with the former Egypt international defender confirming his retirement and being strongly linked with a move into an off-field role at Saudi club Neom.

The centre-back, who spent more than 15 years in professional football across Egypt, Europe and Saudi Arabia, announced his decision in a statement on his official Facebook page on Saturday.

“Today I announce my retirement from football as a player, and not retiring my passion and love for it,” Hegazi wrote. “Thank you to football for every moment, every challenge, every lesson, and every memory it created with me. My journey on the pitch has ended, but my journey with football continues with the same passion, ambition and determination.”

Hegazi steps away from the game having built a reputation as one of the leading Egyptian defenders of his generation, known for his aerial strength, reading of the game and leadership qualities.

Potential move into Neom backroom team

Attention has already turned to Hegazi’s next step, with Saudi reports indicating Neom are considering bringing him into the club’s administrative and technical structure following the end of his contract as a player.

The club officially confirmed in May that Hegazi’s playing deal had come to an end after two seasons with the “sky blue” side. He had joined Neom in the summer of 2024 from Al Ittihad and quickly became one of the key figures in the squad.

During his time there, Hegazi was regarded as a central pillar in Neom’s push for promotion to the Saudi Pro League, known as the Roshn Saudi League. His experience and influence in the dressing room were highlighted as major factors in shaping the team’s mentality during their climb through the domestic structure.

Reports have suggested the club’s hierarchy are keen to tap into that experience by integrating him into their broader football project, using his insight and authority to support both the administrative setup and the coaching staff.

Club career across three countries

Hegazi’s club career began in his homeland, where he emerged with Ismaily before earning a move to Al Ahly, Egypt’s most successful club.

His performances at home opened the door to Europe, where he signed for Fiorentina in Italy and later represented Perugia. He then moved to England with West Bromwich Albion, gaining further experience in one of the most competitive football environments.

Hegazi later switched to Saudi Arabia, first with Al Ittihad in Jeddah, where he became a defensive mainstay, and then with Neom, with whom he concluded his playing days.

Across those spells, he developed into a commanding presence at the back, combining physicality with organisational skills that made him a regular leader on the pitch and a respected voice off it.

Although his international career for Egypt is not detailed in the latest announcement, his status as a full international defender formed a significant part of his profile, underpinning the regard in which he is held within Egyptian football circles.

Hegazi leaves the playing field with a career that spanned domestic leagues in Egypt, Italy, England and Saudi Arabia, and with indications that his involvement in the sport will now continue from the sidelines rather than at the heart of the defence.