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Al Ahly Poised to Welcome Defender Hadi Riyad in Winter Signing

28 January 2026

Al Ahly Poised to Welcome Defender Hadi Riyad in Winter Signing
Al Ahly edges closer to adding Hadi Riyad from Petrojet.

Al Ahly is set to announce defender Hadi Riyad's signing in the coming hours.

Al Ahly closed a deal with Petrojet to buy Riyad's contract, insiders say, today.

Petrojet thanked the player on Wednesday and wished him well, denying an official transfer, while sources say he secured his release to join the Reds.

Riyad is 27, started at Shibin SC, then joined Wadi Degla's youth system and was promoted to first team in 2017 before loans to Haras Hodoud and Kafr El Sheikh.

He joined Petrojet in summer 2021 before moving to Al Ahly on a contract running through the summer of 2023, a move that surprised fans.

Riyad has featured in 16 matches this season, scored once, and earned a call-up to Egypt's national team for the Cup in Qatar, though he did not play today.

Petrojet's star becomes Al Ahly's fifth signing after Youssef Belamri, Amr El-Gazzar, Marwan Osman, and Ahmed Eid—talk about plot twist.

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Hadi Riyad?

A 27-year-old defender who rose through Egyptian clubs, currently with Petrojet, linked with a transfer to Al Ahly.

Which clubs are involved in the deal?

Al Ahly and Petrojet, with Riyad moving to the Red during the winter transfer window.

How many games has Riyad played this season?

He has appeared 16 times for Petrojet, with one goal, and has been called up to Egypt's national team for the Cup in Qatar.