Zamalek legend Mahmoud Abdel-Razek, known worldwide as Shikabala, has officially retired from football, closing the curtain on a remarkable career that spanned more than two decades.
The 39-year-old started his journey with Zamalek’s youth team and went on to shine in the first team from 2003. His dazzling skills took him to clubs such as Al-Wasl (UAE), Al-Raed (Saudi Arabia), Sporting Lisbon (Portugal), Apollon (Greece), and Ismaily (Egypt), but he always remained a Zamalek icon.
Appearing on TV, Shikabala confirmed he’s hanging up his boots while still wearing the white of Zamalek. He broke down in tears, clearly emotional about his decision.
He admitted he had planned to retire at the end of last season but held back out of respect for Mohamed Abdel-Shafy, who also retired without a farewell match.
In a touching Facebook video, Shikabala appeared in a Zamalek shirt. His sons, Noah and Adam, featured in the clip. Noah wore his father’s jersey and held his boots before hanging them up, while Adam said simply, “Shikabala is out.”
