Shikabala announces retirement, ending a golden era at Zamalek

In a heartbreaking moment for Zamalek fans and Egyptian football lovers, club legend and team captain Mahmoud Abdel Razek “Shikabala” has officially announced his retirement from football, bringing the curtain down on a remarkable career that spanned over two decades.

لكلّ قصة نهاية.. لكن قصتنا مستمرة للأبد.

شكراً قائدنا.. ملهمنا.. ابن الزمالك البار.

ستظل في قلوبنا يا معشوق الجماهير 🤍

سنفتقد سحرك يا شيكا 🪄#Zamalek | #MostTitledIn20C | #الزمالك_أولًا | #أكبر_قلعة_رياضية pic.twitter.com/vgLCCZmaB1

— Zamalek SC (@ZSCOfficial) July 3, 2025

The announcement came in an emotional televised interview, where the “Apache”, as he is affectionately known by fans, struggled to hold back tears while declaring: “The journey is over.”

A Journey of Loyalty and Legacy

Born in Aswan, Shikabala’s footballing journey began in the youth ranks of Zamalek. He rose through the club’s academy, dazzling coaches and scouts with his extraordinary talent. His promotion to the first team in the early 2000s marked the beginning of one of the most iconic careers in Zamalek history.

Although he ventured abroad for professional stints in Europe and the Middle East—including with PAOK (Greece), Sporting CP (Portugal), Al Wasl (UAE), Al Raed (Saudi Arabia) and Apollon Smyrni (Greece)—he always returned home. Zamalek was never just a club for Shikabala; it was a destiny.

A Trophy Cabinet Like No Other

Shikabala stands as one of the most decorated players in Zamalek’s illustrious history, with 18 official titles to his name:

• Egyptian Premier League (4): 2002–03, 2003–04, 2020–21, 2021–22
• Egypt Cup (6): 2008, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 2025
• Egyptian Super Cup (2)
• CAF Super Cup (2)
• CAF Confederation Cup (1)
• CAF Champions League (1)
• Arab Club Championship (1)

Egyptian-Saudi Super Cup (1)

Internationally, he was part of Egypt’s Golden Generation that won the Africa Cup of Nations in 2010, and also lifted the Military World Cup in 2007 with the Egyptian Armed Forces team.

Legendary Numbers That Speak Volumes

Shikabala’s numbers highlight his consistency, creativity, and long-term impact:

Career Totals (All Clubs & Competitions):

With Zamalek Only:

Notably, he also won the Egyptian Premier League Golden Boot in the 2010–2011 season, scoring 13 goals and showcasing his elite attacking flair.

A Farewell Fit for a Legend

With his retirement, Egyptian football bids farewell to one of its most gifted, beloved, and loyal sons. Shikabala was more than just a player—he was a symbol of artistry, leadership, and unwavering devotion to his club.

His name will forever be remembered, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of Zamalek fans and beyond.

Thank you, Apache. For the magic, the memories and the journey with the game.