Mahmoud Abdel-Razek “Shikabala” announced his retirement from football at the age of 39, after a long career during which he was Zamalek’s most successful player, winning 17 titles over 20 years with the White Castle.
Shikabala’s decision had a significant impact on Zamalek fans. Despite his advanced age, the player remains hugely popular in Mit Okba, and he is viewed as one of the team’s most important and prominent leaders in history.
In an official statement, Zamalek expressed its gratitude to Shikabala and his distinguished career with the club. The Hussein Labib administration also made a historic decision to immortalize the name of the “Dark Panther,” albeit temporarily.
This decision involves retiring the number 10 shirt, which Shikabala has worn over the years, so that no player will wear it during the upcoming season, scheduled to begin in the first week of August.
Shikabala commented on this decision, saying, “Zamalek Club respects its legends, and this is an important message to everyone who comes after me. I am happy with this decision, and this is a message to young players that the value of the shirt comes from respecting its history.”
Former Zamalek President Mamdouh Abbas had announced his intention to hold a historic farewell match for Shikabala, which would include the participation of many international football stars, without specifying a date.
