Al Habsi to end European career

CAIRO – 5 July 2017: Ali Al Habsi, Omani goalkeeper, is \close to signing with Saudi Arabian giants, Al Hilal, putting an end to his 14 year European career.

“It is a new challenge and Ali is excited about it. He will soon fly down to Saudi Arabia to sign the deal, which is for two years." Ahmed Al Habsi, Ali’s brother, told muscatdaily.com.

Ali Al Habsi, 35 years old, was chosen Reading player of the year last season when Reading lost the Championship play-off final against Huddersfield Town and lost the Premier League promotion in the last stage.

Ahmed talked about Ali’s conditions to join Al Hilal. He said “there is only one technical clarification that Ali has sought from Al Hilal before signing. Once the Saudi club confirms that he will be part of the Asian Champions League squad, it is all done.”

Many rumors linked Al Habsi to return to play in the Premier League, West Bromwich Albion and Leicester City showed interest in signing Al Habsi, but the player’s desire to be in the starting squad and not staying on the bench brought him to Al Hilal.