Columbus Crew Signs Wessam Abou Ali, Palestinian Star of the CWC

Columbus Crew Secures Wessam Abou Ali

The Columbus Crew has officially announced the addition of Palestinian international striker Wessam Abou Ali, reinforcing its squad with a prominent figure in football. The agreement, the amount of which has not been disclosed, marks a significant move for the MLS club, which adds a renowned player to its ranks. Abou Ali, 26, arrives at the Crew as a designated player and has signed a contract that extends until 2027, with an option to extend it until 2028.

“Wessam is a special player whose trajectory speaks of his resilience, character and tireless work ethic, qualities that we value in our Club,” commented Issa Tall, general manager of the Crew. “He is a proven goalscorer who knows what it takes to help his team win. His clinical finishing, energy and charisma will strengthen our squad, and we are confident that he will thrive in our system.”

Issa Tall, General Manager of the Columbus Crew

Abou Ali arrives at Columbus Crew after a standout season in the Egyptian Premier League, where he led Al Ahly to consecutive titles in the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons. In addition, he was the league’s top scorer in the 2023-24 season, with 18 goals. His performance also included winning the Egyptian Super Cup in 2024 and the CAF Champions League in the 2023-24 season. During his time at Al Ahly, Abou Ali accumulated 38 goals and 10 assists in 60 matches across all competitions, including a hat-trick against FC Porto in the FIFA Club World Cup, held on June 23 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Born in Denmark, Abou Ali represented that country in youth categories before changing his eligibility to play with Palestine last year. In the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, he scored four goals in 10 appearances.