Shifting Gears: Donja Leaves Zamalek for the Saudi Pro League
2 February 2026
Transfer Details
In a late winter move, Najma, a player in the Saudi Pro League, secured a midfield reinforcement from Egypt's Zamalek as the market closed in the kingdom.
The deal centers on Nebil Imad Donja, the 29-year-old defensive midfielder, joining Najma after agreeing terms with his parent club.
Reportedly valued at about $1 million — $800,000 upfront plus $200,000 in add-ons tied to performance — with Donja’s contract running through June 2027.
The move comes as Zamalek works to settle late payments owed to the player amid the club’s financial crunch, a topic that has dominated whispers this winter.
Donja, who is capable of anchoring the midfield, appeared 13 times for Zamalek this season, adding leadership and balance to the side.
He joined the White Knights in 2022 from Pyramids FC and has since featured in 121 matches across competitions, lifting the Confederation Cup, the Super Cup and the Egyptian Cup.
Internationally, Donja has earned 11 caps for Egypt since his debut in 2019, underscoring his pedigree on the continental stage.
Najma, currently hovering near the relegation zone with only 5 points from 20 games under Portuguese coach Mario Silva, will hope the addition sparks a brighter run.
Donja’s exit marks a notable chapter in both clubs’ seasons as the Saudi winter window closes, and fans wait to see if the midfielder adapts quickly to Najma’s system.
Career Snapshot
Notes on the journey aside from the on-pitch stats: the move highlights the ongoing flow of talent between Africa and the Gulf, and the ongoing financial tug-of-war many clubs face during the winter window.
Punchlines aside, the market loop keeps spinning, and football rarely complains about a good midfield shot on target.
Punchline 2: And if negotiations were a game, Donja just hit a perfect assist to the exit.
