Mali defensive midfielder Makan Samabaly has joined Iraqi side Al-Hedod SC from league rivals Al-Nasiriyah FC. The 31-year-old, who plays primarily in front of the back four, makes the switch after one season with Al-Nasiriyah.
Samabaly, a right-footed midfielder standing 1.80m tall, arrives at Al-Hedod with experience in both Iraqi domestic football and African continental competition. He completed his move on 25 July 2026 and will now link up with his new club ahead of the forthcoming campaign.
The Malian’s most prolific spell in front of goal came in African competitions, where he registered three goals in nine CAF Confederation Cup appearances and featured in the CAF Champions League. Domestically, he has already tasted Iraqi league action, including matches in the Iraq Stars League.
Before signing for Al-Nasiriyah in 2025, Samabaly had spells with Karbala’a FC and Al-Najaf FC, building his reputation in Iraq after moving from Real, the club he initially joined from JMG Bamako in 2013. His career has also taken him to France with Schiltigheim, where he appeared in the National 1 and National 2 divisions and the Coupe de France.
Samabaly’s arrival gives Al-Hedod an experienced option at the base of midfield as he completes a permanent move from Al-Nasiriyah FC.
