On Tuesday, the Columbus Crew held a press conference at which they introduced forward Wessam Abou Ali to the media. Abou Ali joins the club as a Designated Player from back-to-back Egyptian Premier League champion Al Ahly Sporting Club after being acquired for an undisclosed transfer fee in July.

“There was a lot of hurdles,” said Crew general manager Issa Tall at the press conference. “The reason why we stick with Wessam is because he has the profile we’ve been looking for.”

“Well, hopefully, some goals,” said Abou Ali with a smile when asked about what he can do to help the team. “But also do what is asked from me, to press, to help the team, to follow the philosophy of the team. … But hopefully, in the end, I’m here to finish the chances we create.”

Abou Ali – who led Egyptian Premier League scorers in 2023-24 and recorded double-digit goals each of his two seasons with Al Ahly – will be added to the Black & Gold roster upon receipt of his P-1 Visa and International Transfer Certificate. The 26-year-old’s contract runs through the 2027 season with a Club option for 2028.

Born in Aalborg, Denmark, Abou Ali was granted a one-time federation switch by FIFA in March 2024 to represent Palestine. He made his senior debut on June 6, 2024 in a World Cup Qualifier against Lebanon and scored his first senior goal on Sept. 10 against Jordan. To date, Abou Ali has four goals in 10 appearances for the Palestinian National Team.