At 37, Abdel Razek Hassan Fadlallah, known as Shikabala, officially extended his contract with Zamalek SC for two additional seasons until 2026. A true legend at the Egyptian club, this decision confirms his deep attachment to his formative club and his essential contribution to the team. This extension also has significant repercussions on the local football market in Egypt, where clubs aim to stabilize their squads around experienced and popular players.
By staying with Zamalek, Shikabala sends a strong message to Egyptian and African clubs: investing in experienced local talents pays off, especially to build a solid core and to boost supporters’ enthusiasm. His market value, estimated around €125,000, also illustrates the need for clubs to retain experienced players at controlled costs amid rising international transfer fees.
The Egyptian market shows a growing trend where the importance of iconic local players outweighs expensive foreign transfers. Shikabala embodies this new dynamic that values longevity and club identity in a highly competitive environment. Such profiles also inspire young local players aiming to assert themselves in their national leagues.
Furthermore, the extension highlights African clubs’ resolve to strengthen competitiveness without solely relying on the European market. The experience and fame of players like Shikabala help elevate the overall quality of local competitions, promoting the advancement of African football as a whole.