Egypt’s Next Big Talent Heads to Spain on Loan: Bilal Atia’s European Breakthrough

Bilal Atia's European loan signals a new chapter for Egyptian talent

Al Ahly has secured the future of its young talent Bilal Atia after reaching an agreement with Spanish club Racing Santander to loan him for a new professional stint in European football, as part of the Red Castle's plan to develop promising players.

According to the Egyptian website FilGoal, the deal provides Bilal Atia's move to Racing Santander on loan for a season and a half, with a clause giving Al Ahly the right to extend the loan or complete a final sale later, depending on the player's market value and performance during the loan period.

Racing Santander is competing in Spain's second division this season and has been strong, currently sitting second with 44 points, just one behind the leader, in a tight race to reach La Liga.

Bilal Atia, 18, is one of Egypt’s brightest rising talents, and some German outlets have nicknamed him the little Salah for his style and speed.

Egypt's FA hopes this Spain stint will be a turning point to relaunch his professional career and restore his technical sparkle, ahead of a final decision on his future.

The move follows Al Ahly’s approval during the winter window to let its young player Hamza Abdul Karim join Barcelona.

Punchline: If Bilal keeps this up, the ball will need a visa to keep up with him.

Punchline: And if Hamza makes it big at Barça, expect the press to ask for a sequel: Barcelona and the Red Castle strike again—clearly a match made in transfer heaven.