Veteran goalkeeper El Mahdi Soliman has signed a one-year deal with Egyptian heavyweights Zamalek SC, taking on a fresh challenge at the age of 38 while remaining in his home country.
After departing Al-Ittihad Alexandria at the end of last season, Soliman had been a free agent since June 30.
Zamalek, currently preparing for the CAF Confederation Cup preliminary rounds, moved quickly to secure his services, valuing the seasoned shot-stopper’s wealth of experience as they aim to bolster their squad ahead of a demanding campaign.
Soliman’s decision to extend his career reflects his enduring commitment to the sport and a desire to continue competing at the highest domestic level.
Having begun his professional journey in 2008, the goalkeeper has now spent more than 15 years in the Egyptian Premier League, earning a reputation for consistency and reliability across multiple clubs.
His career résumé includes notable spells with ENPPI SC, Smouha SC, and most recently Al-Ittihad Alexandria, where he remained a key figure despite the physical demands of the position and growing competition from younger goalkeepers.
لا داعي للقلق 🎭
المهدي سليمان هنا 🦇🧤
إحنا الملوك.. إحنا الزمالك 🏹#Zamalek | #MostTitledIn20C | #الزمالك_أولًا | #أكبر_قلعة_رياضية pic.twitter.com/Dm65syUh2a
— Zamalek SC (@ZSCOfficial) July 13, 2025
At Zamalek, Soliman is expected to offer both on-field leadership and valuable mentorship to the club’s younger goalkeepers.
His signing comes as part of a strategic move by the club to reinforce experience between the posts, particularly in continental competitions where poise and game management are essential.
El Mahdi Soliman brings with him not only technical skill but also a calm presence and deep understanding of the Egyptian game, a club insider noted. Zamalek believes his influence will be vital both in the dressing room and on the pitch.
Despite his age, Soliman has shown no signs of slowing down.
His performances in the past season demonstrated his enduring reflexes and ability to command the defensive line—traits that made him a dependable asset for Al-Ittihad.
Now, as he embarks on this new chapter with Zamalek, Soliman joins a storied club with ambitions of reclaiming domestic and continental glory.
For the Cairo-based side, his addition is more than just a short-term signing; it’s a statement about the value of experience and leadership in a team striving to reestablish its dominance.
