Egypt international Hossam Abdel-Maguid is in line to make his first appearance for Bulgarian side Ludogorets Razgrad this weekend after being officially introduced as the club’s newest signing following his move from Zamalek.
The defender was presented to the media on Tuesday, where he received the number four shirt as Ludogorets completed the formalities surrounding his arrival from the Egyptian club.
Abdel-Maguid is now expected to make his competitive debut on Sunday when Ludogorets face Cherno More in the fourth round of the Bulgarian league.
His introduction to the squad had been delayed after the club granted him additional leave following his participation with Egypt at the 2026 World Cup.
The postponement meant the defender joined his new teammates later than expected, but he is now preparing for what would be his first outing in Bulgarian football.
Ludogorets have made an impressive start to the domestic campaign, winning each of their opening three league matches to maintain a perfect record.
Those results have left them level at the top of the standings alongside Levski Sofia, giving Abdel-Maguid the opportunity to join a side that has begun the season in strong form.
The move marks a significant milestone in the defender’s career, representing his first experience outside Egypt after spending his entire senior career with Zamalek.
Abdel-Maguid progressed through the club’s ranks before earning promotion to the first team in 2019.
During his time with the Cairo club, he established himself as a regular member of the squad and went on to make 170 appearances in all competitions before securing his move to Bulgaria.
His departure also comes after weeks of speculation surrounding his future.
Reports had linked the defender with a possible move to Al Ahly, Zamalek’s long-time domestic rivals, during the January transfer window.
Abdel-Maguid publicly addressed those rumours through a message posted on his Facebook account, stressing his appreciation for his years at Zamalek.
In the message, he expressed pride in his journey with the club, describing himself as one of its sons and a supporter who worked hard to earn promotion to the first team.
The defender arrives at Ludogorets having recently represented Egypt at the 2026 World Cup.
He featured in the national team’s second group-stage match against New Zealand and also played an important role during the knockout rounds.
One of his standout moments came in Egypt’s round-of-32 victory over Australia, when he converted the decisive penalty in the shootout to help his side progress.
Those performances on the international stage came shortly before his transfer to Ludogorets and added further momentum to his move abroad.
The Bulgarian champions will now hope the 25-year-old can bring that experience to their defensive unit as they continue their strong start to the league campaign.
If selected against Cherno More on Sunday, Abdel-Maguid will begin a new chapter in his career after more than six years with Zamalek, taking his first steps in European club football with a side aiming to maintain its unbeaten start to the season.
