Surprise move: Kurt Zouma signs for Al-Wasl in UAE return

Kurt Zouma has completed a move to the United Arab Emirates, signing for Al-Wasl FC after his brief spell in Romania was cut short.

The 29-year-old defender, who was born in Lyon and developed at AS Saint-Étienne, continues a career that has taken him across several leagues.

Having previously played in England and Saudi Arabia, Zouma most recently featured for CFR Cluj.

His time there ended prematurely amid issues relating to unpaid wages.

Now, the former France international, capped 11 times at senior level, begins a new chapter in Dubai.

According to reports by Foot Mercato, the transfer was facilitated by Eric Abidal, who serves as sporting director at Al-Wasl.

The Dubai-based side were crowned league champions in the 2023–24 season and also lifted the domestic cup during the same campaign.

This season, they sit fifth in the standings, and Zouma’s arrival is viewed as an effort to reinforce their defensive options as they seek to climb the table.

Zouma’s career has been marked by high-profile moves and varied experiences.

After emerging in France, he built much of his reputation in the English game before embarking on spells in the Middle East and Eastern Europe.

The switch to the UAE adds another destination to a journey that has spanned multiple football cultures and competitions.

For Al-Wasl, the signing represents both experience and pedigree in central defence.

For Zouma, it offers an opportunity to stabilise his career following uncertainty in Romania.

As he prepares to pull on the yellow jersey of the Panthers, attention will focus on whether he can help restore momentum to a side aiming to recapture its recent success.