Abdulkerim Mohammed speaks out on state of the Ethiopian Premier League, CBE, Ethiopian Insurance

Commercial Bank of Ethiopia right back Abdulkerim Mohammed says the new transfer and salary regulations introduced by the Ethiopian Premier League Share Company (EPLSC) have directly affected the Bankers in their title defense. The former Ethiopian Coffee and Saint George defender spoke exclusively to Pan-Africa Football about CBE, his former side Ethiopian Insurance’s title push, and the poor playing conditions.

Mohammed noted that it did not take him long to adapt to CBE’s playing system. “Yes, it is a new club for me. Last season, they were champions. I don’t think it took me long to settle in since I already knew most of the players at the club. However, speaking about the team, we couldn’t replicate what the club achieved last season.”

For the most part, CBE looked disjointed after claiming their first-ever league title. Mohammed acknowledged the difficulties the club faced while trying to defend their crown. “One of the reasons we didn’t perform well this season is the changes to the salary cap. Last season, the club signed many players, so they couldn’t recruit more this season due to the newly implemented regulation. The club signed a few players from the second division at the mid-season mark, but it was not enough.”

Mohammed also claimed that clubs usually prepare differently when facing the Bankers, adding more pressure and making the challenge even harder. “The way teams play against Bank has also changed. Last season, the club was a newly promoted side. It managed to sign new players and win the league title. This season, many clubs give special focus when facing Bank because the club is the defending champion.”

The 2018 Ethiopian Premier League Most Valuable Player is full of praise for his former club, Ethiopian Insurance. Mohammed played for Insurance for the past two seasons before joining CBE.

The right back scored his first league goal in the Week 28 fixture on May 6 with a brilliant low drive from the edge of the box. He stated that the right back role has changed in modern football. “I scored my first goal for Bank against Wolwalo. As a right back, you have to initiate attacks. That’s how modern football works nowadays. Right backs are not just defenders; they are also instrumental in attack. I usually tend to underlap and get closer to the box, which helps me contribute offensively.”

Ethiopian players have been targeted by fans for underwhelming performances in recent times, especially after Ethiopia faced Egypt in the 2026 FIFA World Cup African Zone Qualifier. Mohammed voiced his opinion on the matter, defending local players.

Although SuperSport is expected to end its role as the official TV broadcaster of the Ethiopian Premier League, Mohammed appreciates the positive impact the broadcaster has had on players and the league. “Since DSTV began live broadcasts, I think there have been improvements. Coaches and players have the opportunity to rewatch games and work on their weaknesses. Before the games were televised, it was very difficult for Ethiopian players to move abroad. Scouts need to see your performance and style of play before offering you a chance. I can’t say many players have transferred abroad, but some did make the move.”