Benteke's UAE Rendezvous: A Premier League Veteran Joins Al Wahda
1 January 2026
Benteke signs with Al Wahda
Al Wahda confirmed on Thursday evening that they officially signed Belgian striker Christian Benteke, a 35-year-old with a rich Premier League track record at Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Crystal Palace.
Benteke left the Premier League to ply his trade in Major League Soccer with D.C. United in the summer of 2022, before recently joining the UAE side Al Wahda.
Club statement and ambition
In a statement on X, Al Wahda said they had completed the signing as part of management's plans to meet the squad's needs and boost chances of success in the coming phase.
The club's board welcomed the Belgian and wished him luck and success with the team.
Benteke himself sounded upbeat about the move, pledging to give his best and contribute to the club's ambitions and fan expectations.
Current form and competitions
Al Wahda sits second in the ADNOC Pro League with 21 points, three behind leaders Al Ain, and are progressing in the ADIB Cup ride against Al Jazira.
They are also on track to reach the Round of 16 in the AFC Champions League Elite, with 13 points in fourth place.
Punchline: If football had a senior tour, Benteke would be its MVP—still chasing corners like a bargain hunter at a clearance sale.
Punchline: In the UAE, even Benteke’s transfer fee probably comes with sunblock and a trophy shelf—talk about jetting in with a bang.
