Club Africain president Mohsen Trabelsi has ruled out the departure of Libyan midfielder Osama Al-Sharimi, insisting that the Tunisian club will not sell the 25-year-old despite receiving lucrative offers from leading Libyan sides.
Trabelsi confirmed that the club intends to retain Al-Sharimi ahead of the January transfer window, highlighting the player’s importance to the team’s plans as they prepare for the CAF Champions League group stage.
Speaking exclusively to Winwin, the Club Africain president acknowledged the growing interest in the midfielder, revealing that several prominent clubs in Libya’s Premier League are keen to secure his services.
However, he made it clear that financial offers would not change the club’s position, with Al-Sharimi expected to play an important role in the challenges ahead.
“Despite the strong financial offers that reach millions, we will not give up the services of Osama Al-Sharimi at all, as we rely on him a lot in the upcoming matches, especially after securing the team’s qualification to the group stage of the African Champions League.”
Trabelsi also praised the Libyan international’s discipline, both on and off the pitch, qualities that have strengthened his standing within the club.
The decision comes as Club Africain prepare for a demanding period, with domestic commitments and continental competition placing greater importance on retaining key players.
Al-Sharimi overcame difficult start at Club Africain
Al-Sharimi’s rise at Club Africain has followed a challenging beginning to his time in Tunisia.
The midfielder joined the club from Libyan side Al-Suwaihli in July 2025 on a contract running until the summer of 2027. However, his initial period in Tunis was disrupted by several difficulties, preventing him from making the expected impact during the first half of last season.
His problems reportedly included complications surrounding his eligibility card, while the challenges he faced became serious enough for retirement to be considered.
Despite the setbacks, Al-Sharimi continued working to establish himself at the club rather than abandon his career in Tunisia.
His fortunes changed during the second half of the campaign, when he became an increasingly important member of the starting line-up.
The Libyan midfielder eventually established himself as a key figure in the team and helped Club Africain secure the championship title, rewarding his persistence after a difficult introduction to the club.
That improvement has strengthened his position within the squad and helped him win the support of the Tunisian side’s fans.
Libyan midfielder faces crucial Champions League campaign
Al-Sharimi is now enjoying a more settled period in his career, with his performances attracting attention in Tunisian football and increasing his popularity among Club Africain supporters.
His commitment and consistent work have helped make him one of the team’s prominent players, while the interest from Libyan clubs reflects his growing reputation.
Nevertheless, Club Africain’s immediate priority is to prepare for the CAF Champions League group stage, where they face a challenging assignment against established opposition.
The Tunisian club have been drawn in Group B alongside Egyptian side Zamalek, Algeria’s Mouloudia and Tanzania’s Young Africans.
The group presents a significant test for Club Africain as they seek to progress in the continental competition, and Al-Sharimi is expected to be an important part of their campaign.
With several difficult fixtures ahead, Trabelsi’s decision to reject the possibility of a transfer reflects the club’s determination to maintain the strength of their squad.
The president’s comments also provide a clear indication that Club Africain are unwilling to lose one of their key players at a time when the demands of the season are increasing.
Although interest from Libya is expected to remain a talking point as the winter transfer window approaches, Trabelsi’s position is unequivocal: Al-Sharimi remains part of the club’s plans.
For the midfielder, the coming months offer an opportunity to build on his recovery from last season’s difficulties and continue establishing himself as a leading figure at Club Africain, particularly as the team turns its attention to the challenges of African competition.
