Official: Ali Maaloul returns to Tunisia after nine years away

Tunisian giants CS Sfaxien have officially announced the return of left-back Ali Maaloul, nine years after his departure to Al Ahly of Egypt.

The 35-year-old defender rejoins his boyhood club on a three-year contract, marking an emotional homecoming as the club prepares to celebrate its centenary.

The announcement follows a major administrative breakthrough for CS Sfaxien, who confirmed on Thursday that the transfer ban imposed by FIFA had been lifted. The ban was initially due to unpaid dues owed to Guinean side Hafia FC and the agent of player Mohamed Kanté.

In a statement published on the club’s official Facebook page, Sfaxien declared:

“The club officially announces the lifting of the transfer ban and the start of registering our new signings.”

Maaloul’s return is a major boost for the team ahead of the new season. He originally left CS Sfaxien in 2016 to join Al Ahly, where he enjoyed a highly successful spell, winning multiple domestic and continental titles.

Since joining Al Ahly, he has been an integral part of the team’s success, contributing significantly to numerous domestic and continental titles. His pinpoint crosses, and prolific goal-scoring from the left-back position earned him the adoration of millions and cemented his place as one of the greatest foreign players in the club’s illustrious history.

Achievements with Al Ahly

7 Egyptian Premier League titles

4 Egypt Cup titles

5 Egyptian Super Cups

4 CAF Champions League titles

2 CAF Super Cups

3 FIFA Club World Cup bronze medals

Maaloul was also the top scorer of the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup, finishing with two goals.

Record-Breaking Stats

292 appearances for Al Ahly

51 goals – the highest-scoring defender in the club’s history

85 assists

Most goal contributions by a foreign player in Al Ahly’s history

Most appearances by a foreign player in Al Ahly’s history

Now back in Sfax, Maaloul is set to play a key role not only on the pitch but also in the club’s historic 100-year anniversary celebrations during the upcoming seasons.