Mohamed Bassiouny retires: former Al Masry and ENPPI midfielder ends 15-year playing career

Mohamed Bassiouny has announced his retirement from football, bringing down the curtain on a playing career that spanned more than 15 years and 316 senior matches.

The 35-year-old midfielder revealed his decision in an emotional statement on his official Facebook account, confirming he had played his final game and was stepping away from the pitch while insisting his passion for the sport would remain.

“كل بداية وليها نهاية، والنهاردة بكتب السطر الاخير في رحلتي كلاعب كرة قدم، من 2010، بدات الحلم بقلب مليان شغف، مكنتش اعرف ان الكرة هتاخدني في رحلة ممتعة بكل تفاصيلها,” Bassiouny wrote, reflecting on a professional journey which began in 2010.

The Egyptian player used his message to thank all the clubs he represented, singling out Al Masry in particular and underlining the importance of their supporters in shaping his career.

Tribute to Al Masry and former clubs

Bassiouny stressed that the fans of Al Masry were especially influential for him, saying they played a major role in his development and success, “after God”, during his time in Port Said.

He also expressed gratitude to the other teams whose colours he defended, including Al Merreikh, Ittihad El Shorta, ENPPI and National Bank of Egypt, praising the opportunities and support those clubs had given him across different stages of his career.

Across his spells with those sides, Bassiouny made 316 appearances in all competitions, scoring 17 goals and providing 24 assists.

Thanks to coaches, team-mates and fans

In his farewell note, Bassiouny extended his appreciation beyond clubs to the people who worked alongside him over the years.

He sent a message of respect to every coach who trusted him, all his team-mates on the pitch and the supporters in the stands, whether they backed him or criticised him, stressing that each of them had contributed in some way to his growth as a player.

He emphasised that the encouragement and the scrutiny alike had pushed him to improve and helped shape his personality and professionalism during his time in the game.

Looking ahead to “a new phase”

Bassiouny ended his statement by making clear that, while his playing days are over, his relationship with football is not.

“بخرج من الملعب، بس حب الكرة هيفضل في قلبي، شكرا لكل لحظة، شكرا لكل الجمهور، دي مش نهاية الطريق، دي بداية لمرحلة جديدة ان شاء الله,” he wrote, describing his retirement as a transition rather than a final farewell.

Although he did not reveal specific plans for the future, Bassiouny’s message hinted at an intention to remain connected to the sport in a different capacity as he moves into what he called a “new phase” of his life.