Columbus Crew Acquires Wessam Abou Ali
In a significant addition to their roster, Columbus Crew has officially acquired Wessam Abou Ali, a talented striker and Palestinian international, for an undisclosed fee, which reports suggest is approximately $7.5 million. Abou Ali, 26, will join the team as a designated player, securing a contract that extends through 2027, with an option for an additional year in 2028.
General Manager’s Enthusiasm
Crew general manager Issa Tall expressed his enthusiasm for the new signing, highlighting Wessam’s impressive journey, which exemplifies determination, character, and a strong work ethic—qualities that resonate with the team’s values.
“Wessam is a special player with proven scoring ability, and we believe his clinical finishing and dynamic presence will enhance our squad,”
said Tall.
Abou Ali’s Previous Success
Before joining the Crew, Abou Ali enjoyed an illustrious tenure with Al Ahly, where he was instrumental in the club’s success, helping them secure back-to-back Egyptian Premier League titles for the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons. He notably emerged as the league’s top scorer in the 2023-24 season, netting 18 goals. In addition to league accolades, he contributed to the team’s victories in the Egyptian Super Cup in 2024 and the CAF Champions League in 2023-24.
Impressive Performance Record
Across all competitions with Al Ahly, he amassed an impressive record of 38 goals and 10 assists in 60 matches, including a standout performance where he scored a hat trick against FC Porto during the FIFA Club World Cup held in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on June 23.
International Career
Wessam Abou Ali, who began his career in Denmark where he represented the national youth teams, switched his allegiance to Palestine last year. He has already made an impact on the international stage, scoring four goals in 10 World Cup qualifying matches as his national team vies for a spot in the 2026 tournament.
