Columbus Crew acquire forward Wessam Abou Ali as a Designated Player

The Columbus Crew have signed forward Wessam Abou Ali from Egyptian Premier League champions Al Ahly Sporting Club as a Designated Player for an undisclosed transfer fee. The 26-year-old will join the roster upon receiving his P-1 Visa and International Transfer Certificate. His contract extends through the 2027 season with a club option for 2028.

Crew General Manager Issa Tall praised Abou Ali's resilience, work ethic, and goal-scoring ability, noting his qualities align with the club's values. Tall emphasized that the signing reflects the ownership's commitment to long-term success and resulted from months of collaboration within the soccer operations team.

Abou Ali excelled at Al Ahly, scoring 38 goals and providing 10 assists in 60 appearances across all competitions. He was the Egyptian Premier League's top scorer in 2023-24 with 18 goals, helping secure league and CAF Champions League titles. In the following season, his 10 goals contributed to another league title, Egyptian Super Cup, and CAF Champions League victory. Notable performances include a "perfect hat trick" against FC Porto in the FIFA Club World Cup and a four-goal game against Pharco FC.

Born in Denmark, Abou Ali began his career at Aalborg BK's youth system, making his professional debut in 2018. After spells with Danish clubs Vendsyssel and Silkeborg, he overcame a cardiac event during a 2021 match and recovered to score 14 goals for Vendsyssel. He later played for Sweden's IK Sirius, netting 10 goals in 16 matches before joining Al Ahly.

Internationally, Abou Ali represented Denmark at youth levels before switching to Palestine in 2024. He has scored four goals in 10 appearances for Palestine's senior national team, including his debut goal against Jordan.

The transfer was finalized on July 26, 2025. Abou Ali (6'1", 172 lbs), born January 4, 1999, in Aalborg, Denmark, will occupy a forward position.