Makan Samabaly: Mali midfielder joins Al-Hedod SC from Al-Nasiriyah FC

Mali midfielder Makan Samabaly has joined Iraqi side Al-Hedod SC from Al-Nasiriyah FC, strengthening the Baghdad club’s options in defensive midfield ahead of the new campaign.

The 31-year-old moves after a season with Al-Nasiriyah, where he featured in the Iraq Stars League and continued a career that has taken him through both African and Middle Eastern competitions. The transfer is a completed move, with Samabaly now registered as an Al-Hedod player.

Samabaly, a right-footed holding midfielder standing at 1.80m, has built a reputation for his work at the base of midfield and brings extensive experience from domestic and continental competition. Across recent seasons he has played in the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup, making more than 10 appearances and contributing goals in both tournaments.

Before arriving in Iraq, Samabaly’s career included spells with Real and Al-Yarmouk SC, having originally left Malian side JMG Bamako as a teenager to continue his development. He later moved to Europe with French club Schiltigheim, where he gained further senior experience before returning to Real and then switching to clubs in the Middle East.

His latest move from Al-Nasiriyah FC to Al-Hedod SC continues a sequence of transfers within Iraq following previous stints at Karbala’a FC and Al-Najaf FC, underlining his familiarity with football in the country.

Samabaly’s transfer to Al-Hedod SC was completed on 25 July 2026.